Elisabeth Svendsen Trust

Residents from Innage Grange residential home in Bridgnorth were introduced to a very special guest - Elvis the donkey (aged 19)!

Manager Pauline Tremellen said, "This is a wonderful opportunity for all the residents at the home. At Innage Grange we have two units for people with dementia and the rhythmic stroking of an animal as gentle as a donkey puts the person at ease and builds a bond between them."

Donkeys are natural companions and the relationship and therapeutic bond they form is invaluable for children with disabilities and for the elderly.

Carer Sam Griffiths said, "It's a lovely surprise for all the residents. They very rarely have the chance to interact with animals especially a donkey! It's May's 99th birthday on the 5th of August so it's an early birthday present for her."

Pauline concluded, "Today has been such a success. All the residents at Innage Grange have enjoyed seeing Elvis and decided that they want to sponsor one of the donkeys from the Elisabeth Svendsen Trust which means we can all benefit from regular visits."