Recovery to Work - Powered by dogs

At Paws & Pause, people in recovery discover belonging and build confidence on their pathway into sustainable work.

We create pathways into work for SE15 resdients who are furthest from employment, through patient, personalised support, powered by the healing routine of caring for dogs.

“In the mess of addiction I was so disconnected, but now the dogs give me affection, purpose and a reason to show up every day.” - Graduate Jonathan

Through our ‘Paws for Progression’ initiative, we will change the lives of local people in recovery from substance use or living with complex mental health needs. We do this through a 6 -9 month structured placement at our doggy daycare centre that rebuilds confidence, motivation and hope for a future people can truly believe in!

This programme doesn’t offer quick fixes. It provides a launch pad for people who have all too often been shut out of opportunity, turning 40 stories of struggle into 40 stories of transformation.

How your vote transforms lives:

With your support to secure a £45,000 grant, we can open 40 new places for SE15 residents facing some of the toughest mental health and employment barriers. With the grant, we will be able to fund a full-time Project Coordinator for one year, provide every participant with coaching, offer access to accredited courses and deliver peer-led training to support long-term recovery and employment readiness.

Why dogs? Caring for animals sparks responsibility, pride and purpose, and gives people who struggle to communicate a safe emotional buffer. They're our catalyst for change. We believe a workplace rooted in both safety and fun provides best conditions for learning!

Participants receive hands-on work experience in our daycare, essential peer support, and one-to-one career and wellbeing coaching. With 6-9 months on site, participants focus on adapting to a workplace environment, learning to be apart of a team and attend weekly workshops on resilience and employability, helping them rebuild their routine and confidence.

“I didn’t believe I could ever work. Now I feel part of a team, I have new skills, and I’m proud of myself that I now have a job for the first time.” - Graduate

The people we support cannot cope with traditional 6 week employment schemes; they need more time, safety, trust and care. At Paws & Pause, they are met with kindness, consistency and encouragement. We don’t just build CVs, we rebuild belief in success.

And we know it works:

• 85% of trainees move into work or education
• 100% report improved confidence and wellbeing
• Over 40% of our current staff team are former trainees

By the end of the programme, participants will leave with accredited skills, references, work experience and the confidence to take control of their future.

But the impact doesn’t end with each participant. As the founder and a resident of Peckham, I’ve watched people walk through our doors unsure if they belong and leave with their heads held high. Peckham dog owners, volunteers and local residents see their growth daily. It breaks stigma, builds pride and strengthens community connection.

Vote for Paws & Pause to give people a chance to show what they're capable of. Led by people, powered by dogs.