Residents at Cofton Park Manor Care Home in Cofton Hackett, near Birmingham, recently enjoyed a heartwarming visit from guide dogs in training, bringing plenty of puppy cuddles, conversation and smiles throughout the home.
The visit, organised with volunteers from Guide Dogs, gave residents the chance to spend time with the dogs, learn about their training and hear how they support people living with visual impairment. Experiences like this form an important part of daily life at Cofton Park Manor, where community connection, wellbeing and meaningful activities sit alongside high-quality residential, dementia and nursing care.
Resident Iris Bessent, aged 97, said simply:
“They were a delight and gave us all so much love.”
Volunteer puppy raiser Vanessa Hine attended with Clara, a Labrador and Golden Retriever cross currently in training. Over the past six years, Vanessa has helped raise several future guide dogs.
“I always wanted to support Guide Dogs,” she explained. “Watching them grow, learn and prepare to support someone in everyday life is incredibly rewarding.”
Residents also heard from Sam Barber, a registered blind guide dog owner, who spoke about the positive impact her dog has had on her independence and confidence.
“My dog has turned my life around and has put me in a better place,” she shared.
Alongside meeting the dogs, residents and team members organised a small raffle during the visit, raising £65 to support the charity’s work.
Community Relations Manager Wendy Sibley said:
“Guide dogs provide independence, companionship and reassurance to people who need it most. It was wonderful to see how much happiness the visit brought to our residents and team.”
At Cofton Park Manor Care Home, events like this are part of everyday life. Regular activities, visiting speakers, local partnerships and shared experiences help residents remain connected to the wider community while supporting emotional wellbeing, confidence and a sense of purpose.
Located in Cofton Hackett, close to Birmingham and surrounding Worcestershire communities, the home provides residential, dementia, nursing and respite care in a welcoming, purpose-built setting designed around comfort, companionship and personalised support.
Families often find that visiting the home and seeing daily life first-hand helps them understand whether it feels like the right environment for their loved one.