Up close and personal!

People who attend our monthly social inclusion initiative in Huddersfield received a very different form of animal therapy – the creepy crawly variety.

The Caremark Kirklees’ Coffee Club was visited by ZooLab, a company which provides more unusual animal encounters.

In this case people got to see, and touch if they wished, a snake, tarantula, hissing cockroach and giant snail.

As part of the session, people were able to learn interesting facts about each of the animals, including their habitats and their favourite foods. Keen for the full animal encounter experience, no-one seemed rattled by handling the animals, except perhaps some members of staff!

Caremark Kirklees Director Fiona Smith said: “We are always looking for new and exciting activities for people who attend our Coffee Club to take part in, and the visit from some unique creatures was the perfect surprise.

“Last year we had a visit from birds of prey and they were a bit cuter than a cockroach and a snake, but it was certainly a stimulating experience for everyone!”

Caremark set up the Coffee Club in May 2023 as a way of combatting loneliness and social isolation among older people. The aim was to bring people together in one room for free food, refreshments, entertainment/activities, with a view to encouraging social interaction, particularly for Caremark customers who live on their own.

It proved so popular that the club moved from its original venue in Honley to the Kirklees Council owned Sandy Mount extra care housing scheme in Crosland Moor, which is more spacious and has better access.

The Coffee Club takes place on the first Friday of each month and is a real highlight of the Caremark calendar.

click here for more details or to contact Caremark Kirklees