LNER Supports Wag & Company to Combat Loneliness with Canine Companions

Thursday, January 23, 2025

London North Eastern Railway (LNER) is tackling loneliness and social isolation among elderly residents in the North East through its Customer and Community Investment Fund (CCIF). The initiative has provided crucial funding to Wag & Company, a charity dedicated to connecting older dog-lovers with volunteer owners and their pets.

Wag & Company currently operates with over 370 volunteers, who regularly visit elderly individuals in their homes or care facilities, offering much-needed companionship. Thanks to LNER’s funding, the charity will recruit and train an additional 40 volunteer dog owners, enabling 40 new weekly home visits or visits to as many as 400 individuals in care homes and hospitals across the region.

A Heartwarming Impact

The difference Wag & Company makes is highlighted in a short film released by LNER, showcasing 91-year-old Gladys, who enjoys weekly visits from Jasper, a friendly canine companion, and his volunteer owner, Helen. For Gladys, these visits offer a chance to reminisce, bond, and experience the joy of canine companionship once again.

Diane Morton, Founder and Chair of Wag & Company, emphasized the importance of the charity’s mission:
“There are over 50,000 elderly people in the North East experiencing loneliness and its associated mental and physical challenges. Many of them miss the companionship of a dog. The support from LNER allows us to expand our team of volunteers, ensuring more people have something to look forward to—a friendly chat and the comforting presence of a furry friend.”

Addressing Loneliness with LNER’s Support

Loneliness is recognized as a pressing social issue. The UK Government’s Campaign to End Loneliness highlights that social isolation can significantly increase the risk of conditions such as dementia, depression, and heart disease. Wag & Company directly addresses these challenges by fostering connections between elderly individuals and volunteers with their dogs, promoting emotional well-being and reducing isolation.

Rachael Wilson, LNER’s Customer and Community Manager, praised the charity’s work:
“Loneliness can lead to serious health conditions, including stress, anxiety, and low mood. For those unable to care for a dog, Wag & Company’s visits are often the highlight of their week. Almost 220 individuals and 200 care facilities already benefit, but many more are on the waiting list. With this funding, we’re thrilled to support the recruitment of 40 new volunteers and their dogs, helping brighten the days of many more people.”

Looking Ahead

LNER’s partnership with Wag & Company demonstrates the power of community initiatives in addressing social challenges. By leveraging the CCIF, LNER supports innovative programs that enhance lives and strengthen connections.