Lily’s Kitchen is launching a ‘Walk & Talk’ service this summer to support LGBTQ+ communities during Pride month and beyond. As part of its new ongoing partnership with MindOut, a mental health service run specifically for, and by, LGBTQ+ communities, Lily’s Kitchen will help pet parents from the communities come together to connect through their love of four-legged friends.
The walks will be attended by MindOut service users, with support from the charity’s staff, and frontline volunteers, with the aim to;
- Provide an activity-based peer support opportunity
- Reduce social isolation and increase confidence
- Increase connection to the local community and LGBTQ+ communities
- Improve wellbeing through being ‘outdoors’ and in nature and by physical exercise
- Improve mood and wellbeing through interaction with dogs
The initiative, as well as other vital support services offered by the charity, will be funded through sales of the Lily’s Kitchen Love & Pride recipes for dogs and cats, 100% of profits from which will be donated to MindOut.
The first Walk & Talk will be held on July 23 in Brighton. Those hoping to attend should register their interest by emailing enquiries@mindout.org.uk.
Erica Thornton, interim CEO, MindOut, said: “We’re thrilled to be launching our new ‘Walk & Talk’ service this summer as part of our mental health support interventions and funded by Lily’s Kitchen.
“We know from speaking with our service users that feelings of isolation and a lack of confidence are all too common factors experienced among the LGBTQ+ communities we support, but we also know what a support line pets can be for people feeling this way. They provide unconditional love and are true companions. So, our hope is that by providing a safe, supported environment people can connect with fellow LGBTQ+ pet parents and improve their wellbeing by being outdoors in nature with their furry friend.”
Samantha Crossley, Marketing Director at Lily’s Kitchen, said: “Pets love us for who we are, wholeheartedly and unconditionally. Our society is made richer by its wonderfully diverse community and we believe that all differences should be celebrated. In the same way a pet loves their owner with pride and without prejudice, we want to share this message of limitless love and support a cause close to our hearts.”
