Parrots help people overcome mental illness

[Bob]

PARROT power has helped a group of volunteers overcome mental health problems and get back into the working routine.
The National Parrot Sanctuary in Friskney has allowed the group of 16 to work one day a week in their grounds over the past 18 months.
Working with the sanctuary's 500-plus birds has helped volunteers work towards Achievement Awards, which were presented to them on Friday by East Lindsey District Council's chief executive Nigel Howells.
The placement came about after a partnership was developed between the sanctuary, the Shaw Trust charity and Lincolnshire Partnership NHS Trust. "The sanctuary has provided a fantastic stepping stone to work for our clients and empowered many people to achieve qualifications and progressions into work, even self employment," said Shaw Trust area manager Debbie Brackner.

08 December 2005