Assistance dog Belle was a big hit on a special visit to Dorset law firm Ellis Jones Solicitors.
She went walkies to the firm’s Bournemouth office with volunteers Andy and Carol Moore from the Veterans With Dogs charity.
They told staff of their lifechanging work supporting current and former members of the British armed forces with mental health difficulties.
The trio were guests at the latest of Ellis Jones’ ‘Lunch & Learn’ sessions, which focus on professional development, wellbeing and topical issues.
Their visit came after Ellis Jones raised £306 for the charity from a World Cup sweepstake and as part of the firm’s ongoing commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant.
Nigel Smith, Ellis Jones Managing Partner, said: “It was a joy to welcome Belle, Andy and Carol to our latest Lunch & Learn session.
“Belle was a big hit and put a smile on everyone’s faces although there was also an important message behind their visit too.
“We value the immense sacrifices our service personnel have made and take our commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant very seriously. We’re grateful to Andy, Carol and Belle for joining us for another of our successful Lunch & Learn sessions.”
Exeter-based Veterans With Dogs provides assistance dogs for individuals to help in their day to day lives as well as community dogs for group based activities and public events.
Chief executive Craig MacLellan said: “Our thanks go to Ellis Jones for the opportunity to visit and explain more about what we do, as well as for its wonderful support from the World Cup Sweepstake.”
Ellis Jones was awarded the government’s Bronze Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Award to mark its commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant last year. It is now working towards its silver award.