Unleashing Potential, Improving Lives

In our prison-based work, we work in partnership with the Scottish Prison Service at HMP & YOI Polmont,  providing a suite of different services, which are tailored to guide our learners through their journey with us.

One to One Sessions

Many begin their Paws for Progress journey through our Wellbeing Service. This is delivered by our Education & Wellbeing Specialist, working closely with the Scottish Prison Service Inclusion team to offer holistic support to some of the most vulnerable people within the prison. These sessions are built around making positive connections with our team and engaging with the dogs in a low-pressure environment.

“For me it’s about inclusion. I can come here and feel part of something and feel accepted.” 

Group Activity Sessions

Students can move onto our Activity Sessions. Here they progress to working in small groups, learning about dog training and engaging in highly interactive activity sessions with our staff dogs.

The Activity Sessions prepare students for attending our more intensive 4-8 week Dog Training and Care Programme, which requires the commitment to attend regular sessions over multiple weeks, take on more responsibilities, and open up further opportunities for learning and development.

For our most committed students there is the opportunity to take part in our 8-week Rescue Dog Training Programme, where students are paired up with rescue dogs from @EdinburghDogAndCatHome, and focus their efforts on helping the dogs to be rehomed whilst developing their own skills and gaining educational certificates and qualifications.

“I think working with the dogs was the best part as it helped improve my mental health and I also enjoyed learning new skills, that I can apply throughout life.” 

To find out more about our services and register your interest, please drop us an email at info@pawsforprogress.co.uk

Rescue Dog Training

Rescue Dog Training

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Custody Programmes

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Every donation, large or small, will help us to enhance the well-being of people and animals