Loneliness and social isolation are chronic problems in the elderly in the North East. An estimated 50,000 pensioners in the region are chronically lonely and are 50% more likely to die prematurely than people with good social networks. This means loneliness is as big a mortality risk as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.

Many are dog lovers and when they ask for a furry friend from Wag & Company, they get the bonus of a very nice two legged one at the same time. Over 400 amazing Visiting Wag Teams are currently making the difference, from Berwick-upon-Tweed, down to Northallerton, across to Brampton and pretty much everywhere in between.

There are many people in need, here are just a few of the many lovely examples of why what we do is so important. Richard in Stockton who relies on carers for all his emotional and healthcare counts the number of sleeps until his best friend Mungo the Cockapoo comes to see him. David who lives alone with Motor Neurone Disease and who lost his black labrador 18 months ago, now enjoys the comfort and cuddles of Friendship Black Labrador Stanley every week. Alison who lost her greyhound after surgery two years ago and had to have her rehomed, now has Dawn with Friendship Greyhound Steed every Friday helping her to get out a bit more and giving her a large hound to love again.

Our group of jumpers are doing this for them and for the many more older and vulnerable people across our region who need friends.

Thank you.