The K9 Project
The K9 Project uses dogs to create easy access learning opportunities for some of the most vulnerable people in Cambridgeshire. The Project offers help and support to learners on every step of their journey, with many progressing on to new opportunities.
Programmes run by K9 include a voluntary dog walking scheme, a 12-week group work programme and community-based family orientated dog training. Programmes include a mixture of individual mentoring and group work sessions, and many also include a fundraising element where group members take on different roles which they can then add to their CVs. The dogs provide a key learning tool but have also been found to have a therapeutic effect on participants.
The K9 Project specialises in working with vulnerable and disengaged adults, so learning skills from goal setting to communicating to CV writing and interview skills in a safe and friendly environment is enormously beneficial.
Although operating with relatively small numbers, the impact of the K9 Project is substantial, with completers going on to find work, further training or volunteering positions. Learners also demonstrate hugely increased confidence and motivation, and report other benefits such as an increased sense of self-worth and making new friends.
One of the learners, Stacey, said, “Since coming to the group I have found the skills and confidence to move forward with my life. I used to isolate myself because I was terrified of meeting new people. Now I look forward to the next step of my journey.”
