COCKAPOO Chunk is doing her bit to help improve people’s mental health.

The furry bundle of energy has become a firm favourite among patients and staff at the Chichester Centre.

Run by the Sussex Partnership NHS Trust, the centre is a hospital for people who need rehabilitation and treatment within a secure environment.

Occupational therapist Roma Carter decided to share her dog with them in the hope of supporting their recovery.

In recent years there has been an increase in the number of people wanting assistance dogs specifically for support with mental health conditions.

Pets can act as a motivation for their owner, giving them a sense of purpose, while also offering calming benefits from stroking and playing with them.

Ms Carter thought having a dog on the wards could make a positive difference to the mood of patients and help support their recovery.

She said: “Before coming to the Chichester Centre a lot of people will have had pets in their own homes and would have grown fond of the therapeutic nature of having an animal by your side.

“Bringing a dog into the ward could help service users to feel more at home and less like they are in a hospital environment.”

After a weekly training programme Chunk was welcomed to the centre and became an immediate hit.

The original plan was she would go in for three half days a week but this was extended to three full days because of her popularity.

Activities include walking groups, where patients are able to hold Chunk’s lead and walk with her.

She also enjoys playing football with them in the garden.

Chunk has also helped people develop their social skills and come out of their shell.

Patients have said the dog comforts them and they look forward to seeing her.

On a mental health ward moods and emotions can sometimes become heightened but Chunk has helped people feel more at ease.

Ms Carter said: “I can’t remember a single incident that has happened when she has been there.

“I don’t know if that is just coincidence but she definitely does change the atmosphere and make people feel calmer.”

The many benefits of having Chunk on the wards have not only been noticed by patients but also by staff.

During a busy or stressful shift they often go and spend a few minutes with her and feel more at ease.

Ms Carter said management never questioned the idea of getting a working dog.

She said: “It became clear that it was such an obvious need to have a dog for our service that it almost didn’t make sense that we hadn’t done it sooner.”