Thousands Flock to Fort Amherst for Health and Wellbeing Festival

More than 2,000 people turned out on Saturday 27 August at Fort Amherst for an annual community festival packed with health and wellbeing services – and it was all totally free.

Therapy Dogs Steal the Show

Community Policing Volunteer trainer PC Martyn Tulk was on hand with the volunteer canine team, who proved a huge hit. He said: “This was a great event to be involved in. Many people enjoyed meeting our therapy dogs and learning how they support mental health and vulnerable individuals.”

Therapy dogs are known to reduce stress and anxiety while offering comfort and connection in tough times. PC Tulk added: “Our dogs are calm, friendly, and affectionate. The Community Policing Volunteer Canine team dedicate their free time to create positive interactions that benefit mental and physical wellbeing.”

Community Policing Volunteering Builds Trust

The festival, organised by The Paramount Foundation, featured performers and workshops designed to boost community wellbeing. The Foundation focuses on investing in local communities to improve lives.

Community Policing Volunteer Therapy Dogs also support Child Centred Policing by ensuring every police encounter with children and young people is positive. They help build trust between vulnerable individuals and police, making communities safer.

Get Involved: Volunteer with Kent Police

Fancy joining the Community Policing Volunteer team? Visit the Kent Police Community Policing Volunteer website to find out more.

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