BFRS donates hose reels to Whipsnade Zoo for Warriors of Hope initiative

Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service (BFRS) has donated 10 obsolete hose reels to Whipsnade Zoo, part of international conservation charity ZSL, which will play a crucial role in their Warriors of Hope initiative. 
 

The programme, which is currently in its second phase, supports veterans needing mental health support through animal-assisted therapeutic activities in a breathtaking, natural setting.
 

The donation of the hose reels, which are no longer fit for operational use, is a direct result of BFRS’s commitment to engaging with and giving back to the community. Dunstable White Watch, led by 

Crew Commander Chris Parnham, was instrumental in facilitating the contribution. The hose reels will be used as part of a variety of activities at the zoo aimed at providing veterans with new opportunities for healing, including creating terrariums and supporting the daily care of zoo animals such as hippos.

CC Parnham commented: “We’re proud to support this incredible initiative and contribute to a cause that helps both veterans and the animals at Whipsnade Zoo. Our hose reels, which would otherwise be discarded, have now found a new purpose in helping to improve the mental health of veterans through animal-assisted therapy. This donation is just one example of BFRS’s ongoing commitment to supporting the wider community and making a positive impact wherever possible.”
 

The Warriors of Hope programme is a week-long residential programme in partnership with SAVSIM, providing veterans with a unique opportunity to engage with animals, participate in animal therapy sessions, and engage in activities such as yoga and mindfulness exercises. This setting, nestled within the vibrant atmosphere of the zoo, offers a tranquil and inspiring space for participants to unwind, connect, and rediscover their sense of purpose.
 

Patrick Conlon, Community Engagement Programme Lead at Whipsnade Zoo, added: “We’re incredibly grateful to BFRS for their generous donation of hose, as this sturdy but flexible material is perfect for creating exciting and engaging items for the animals. It's been fantastic to see the veterans getting involved and transforming it into creative enrichment for lots of different species – from hammocks for the endangered François langurs, to a very large pig for the Amur tiger, Miron. It's a great opportunity for us to create positive change for both wildlife and people.”
 

The Warriors of Hope programme brings veterans closer to the animals in the zoo, fostering a sense of responsibility and purpose as they actively participate in animal care and other therapeutic activities. Throughout the week, participants engage in discussions on mental health management techniques such as TRiM (Trauma Risk Management) and work with skilled therapists to create tangible symbols of their resilience, including intricate terrariums.
 

As the programme continues, the collaboration between BFRS and Whipsnade Zoo exemplifies the power of community-driven initiatives and the transformative potential of support and understanding for those facing mental health challenges.ENDS