Canine Crew launches at Aberdeen heliports to help offshore workers reduce stress
Four-legged friends Dorothy and Naso made the first of many visits to Offshore Helicopter Services on Wednesday.
A new 'paw-patrol' has been deployed at Aberdeen heliports in a bid to help offshore workers reduce stress and anxiety.
Canine Concern Scotland Trust is working alongside all four heliport terminals with the aim of creating a positive experience for North Sea personnel ahead of setting off for work on an oil rig.
The 'helipets' initiative has been introduced after it emerged mental health within the energy industry has been a key talking point when health and safety is addressed.
A white paper issued last year revealed 40% of workers experienced suicidal thoughts some or all the time while on duty, and offshore workers are 15 times more likely to take their own lives than those onshore.
The initiative follows the success of the existing Canine Crew duties at Aberdeen Airport.
Offshore Helicopter Services (OHS) were the first to welcome Dorothy and Naso on Wednesday morning as several flights were grounded due to a yellow wind warning.
Diane Wood, Chair of the Board of Directors at Therapets, and Area Rep for Aberdeenshire North says she has experienced first-hand how interactions with dogs can help people who are struggling.
She said: “We are absolutely delighted to launch Helipets in Aberdeen, it is a natural progression from the initiative at Aberdeen Airport.
"I have experienced first-hand how the Therapets provide a positive experience including those dealing with mental health challenges as the dogs promote calmness and relaxation. Research shows that working away from home and in a fault intolerant environment is highly stressful. A Helipets visit can have a positive impact on the pre-flight experience.”
OHS, which transports 1500 outbound passengers each week, will welcome a crew of two once a week for two hours to interact with passengers.
OHS Commercial Services Manager Michelle McCombie said: “It is great news that we have been able to welcome Helipets to the team.
"For a long time, we have known that pets are good for us, that the mere action of stroking a dog slows down the heartrate and reduces blood pressure.
"We hope that bringing the Helipets dogs into our passenger terminals will be a welcome distraction for our passengers who are nervous travelling offshore, and for our colleagues at our Aberdeen facilities.”