Neil Palmer is a PAT Volunteer and VAC from Birmingham, who visits a local hospital and care home with Stanley, his friendly miniature schnauzer. 

Stanley is a super schnauzer with special powers - and has helped young people overcome their fear of dogs.

"During a visit to the children's hospital we came across a girl who was a little scared of dogs," Neil recalls. "Her mum let us know this was the case, so we obviously made sure we didn't come near.  

"We spent some time with some other patients, families and staff in the area and within a couple of minutes the girl wanted to come over to meet Stan. Before long the girl was stroking him! The mum couldn't believe it and made sure she took pictures to show the dad.  It was a lovely moment."

Neil's job is very home based and says it is often quite solitary. "Volunteering means I get out to meet lots of different people I would never come into contact with otherwise."

As well as being a Visiting Volunteer, Neil is also a PAT Volunteer Area Coordinator (VAC). “The most rewarding part is being able to help facilitate more visits to more establishments that are looking to benefit from our amazing volunteers and their fantastic pets to allow more people to share in the magic!”