An increase in demand for its services has led national charity Hearing Dogs for Deaf People to make an urgent appeal for volunteer puppy trainers in the Milton Keynes area.
Hearing Dogs for Deaf People trains clever dogs to alert deaf people to important and life-saving sounds, including smoke alarms, intruder alarms, oven timers, alarm clocks and even baby monitors. Its dogs also provide constant emotional support and companionship – helping deaf people leave loneliness behind.
Deafness is on the rise in the UK; by 2035, it is estimated that one in five British people (over 15 million) will experience hearing loss, and the increase the charity is seeing in the number of people coming to it for help, reflects this.
The charity receives no government funding but is very fortunate to have the support of a network of committed volunteers.
The charity urgently needs permanent puppy trainers, who will look after a puppy in their home for the duration of its training (usually between 18 months and two years), but short-term trainers, to cover times when other volunteers are on holiday, are also needed.
Mary Wiles, from Newton Longville, became a volunteer puppy trainer after speaking to the Hearings Dogs team at the Bucks County Show. She said: “I began training my first puppy in November 2007 and have gone on to look after and train more than 20 puppies over the years. I am currently looking after a lovely black and white spaniel called Bracken.
“It’s incredible to take on a tiny eight-week-old puppy and help transform them into a confident dog, ready to change the life of the deaf partner they’ve been matched with.
“Hearing Dogs is a lovely charity to volunteer for and I’ve met so many friends over the years. We go to puppy classes where the pups get to socialise with other pups and learn different skills, and we get to meet other volunteers.”
Victoria Leedham, Head of Volunteering at Hearing Dogs for Deaf People, said: “Our dogs do so much to help deaf people – from alerting them to life-saving sounds, to providing emotional support and making sure they never feel alone - and the hard work put in by our wonderful volunteers is absolutely integral to that.
“Anyone who volunteers for us can expect to feel like part of our family. No previous experience is necessary, and volunteers will receive lots of support and training to ensure they feel fully equipped to care for one of our dogs.
“The charity will also cover all costs involved, from the moment the volunteer takes the puppy home, to when it is handed over to one of our deaf partners after its training is complete”, she added.
“These roles would be perfect for local dog lovers living in a home with a secure garden, and plenty of time to spare every day. We can really only consider applications from working people if they work just a few hours from home each week.”
Anyone interested in finding out more about volunteering for Hearing Dogs for Deaf People can visit the website here. The volunteering team can be reached directly at volunteer@hearingdogs.org.uk or on 01844 348129
