Paws & Pause

From Isolation to Inclusion
Many people in recovery struggle to maintain motivation, social connections, and confidence once traditional employability programmes end. Paws & Pause bridges this gap by creating a safe, structured environment where dogs act as both motivators and companions. Caring for animals instils responsibility, pride, and routine, helping participants reconnect with the world of work while building social and emotional skills.

Hands-On Learning with Real Impact

The “Paws to Employability” programme gives trainees six months in a doggy daycare hub, attending two half-day sessions each week. Rotations cover dog handling, grooming, enrichment, reception, and customer care, alongside workshops, coaching, and goal-setting. With a team where 60% have lived experience, trainees receive empathetic guidance. Graduates leave with accredited training, references, and most importantly, empowerment – 100% report increased confidence. Many arrive after long stretches out of work, and 85% move into education or employment, including management, dog training, massage therapy, vet nursing, and engineering. “For the first time in my life I didn’t want the ground to swallow me up when someone asked me ‘so what do you do?’ Instead, I was proud to say I’m part of something amazing,” says Emmie, a graduate trainee.

The Funded Project
Paws & Pause is partially self-funded through its much-loved doggy daycare, a local favourite with both owners and their dogs. While profits from the business cover many costs, they still require funding for staff and trainee support. Funding from The John Good Group will enable the programme to provide mentoring, travel bursaries, and workshop materials, ensuring more Londoners can access this life-changing training, gain sustainable employment skills, and contribute to a thriving community.