This is only possible thanks to our grant funding from Walking and Cycling Grants London! Big thanks to TFL, Groundwork London and London Marathon Foundation for making this possible.

We sat down with Kate to ask her a few questions about volunteering, her favourite walk and what her mental health tips are.

Welcome to CareDogs, Kate! Please tell us a bit about yourself?

Thank you!  I am an outdoors person who loves nature.  I am originally from the West Country but moved to London around 10 years ago.  I am passionate about volunteering and have worked in the volunteer & charity sector now for about 8 years.  In my spare time, I help rescue abandoned street cats to find their furever homes.  

Why did you choose CareDogs? 

I had known of CareDogs and the fantastic work the organisation has been doing over the past few years.  I am a huge animal lover and have experience both as a volunteer and as a volunteer manager so I could not think of a better organisation to work with!  The service that CareDogs is providing for the community is invaluable to the people who use it and I was so thrilled to get involved.

Where is your favourite walk? 

My favourite local walk is South Norwood Country Park; its just rural enough that you can forget you are in London.  Another favourite is Stiperstones Ridge in Shropshire.

What makes you so passionate about helping older people combat loneliness?

I was raised by my Grandparents and therefore spent a lot of time around older people growing up;  this gave me a huge insight into the 'small gestures' that can mean so much to someone.  I learnt so much from living in an intergenerational household and feel lucky for having such enriching and valuable relationships with older people.  Being able to help combat loneliness in older people through CareDogs is a great way to carry this forward. 

They say a dog is a man’s best friend. How has the power of pawsitivity shown up for you?

I am a lover of all animals but particularly dogs & cats. I live with my rescue cat, Sally who without a doubt got me through the pandemic lockdown.  Looking after an animal gave me purpose to the endless days, provided countless funny moments and above all, companionship.

At CareDogs, we aim to boost the mental health and wellbeing of the people and communities we support. What small steps do you take regularly to stay happy and healthy?

For me, the biggest boost to my wellbeing is to exercise and be outdoors.  I love walking and running and being in green spaces.  I also find spending time with my cat, very therapeutic and relaxing.

Kate with our Volunteer Client Manager, Julia and her dog Obi

CareDogs are dedicated to tackling social isolation in older people and pairing them up with local befrienders and their dogs to get walking and have happier and healthier lives. If you or someone you know could benefit from our service, we are currently operating in Lewisham, Bromley and Croydon - please email us at kate@caredogs.org.uk or hello@caredogs.org.uk