Patients and staff on Stockport’s Bluebell Ward got a fantastic feline visit from the latest recruit to Stockport NHS Foundation Trust’s pet therapy team.

This was the first session from therapy cat Bruce and he did very well, becoming very popular with all who met him.

The Bluebell ward is based at the Meadows in Offerton, and is run by the trust for patients with long-term complex conditions who are undergoing a continuing care assessment prior to discharge.

Pet therapy is an established way of helping patients relax by letting them interact with friendly animals. It can release endorphins which create a calming effect, and can help reduce stress, alleviate pain, and provide psychological support.

As well as Bruce, the trust already has eight therapy dogs also at work across its services, including at Stepping Hill Hospital.

The pet therapy visits are organised with the help of the volunteer service together with the Pets as Therapy charity.