Lord Provost visit with Therapet®

Lord Provost Visits Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh to Celebrate Award-Winning Therapets and Volunteers

22 October 2026

The Lord Provost of Edinburgh made a very special visit on the 22 October 26, to recognise the outstanding contribution of the Therapets® and the volunteers who regularly visit the Royal Infirmary and Royal Hospital for Children and Young People.  The volunteers and Therapets® received an Inspiring Volunteer, Team of the Year award at the City Chambers in June this year.

The visit provided an opportunity to meet some of the dedicated volunteers and their wonderful Therapets®, whose visits bring comfort, companionship and smiles to patients, families and staff. Through their kindness, time and commitment, they help make the hospital experience a little brighter for patients, while also bringing moments of joy and connection to those they meet.

The occasion was a fitting tribute to the remarkable difference that volunteers and their four-legged companions make within the hospital community. Their achievement reflects the compassion, teamwork and dedication that underpin the Therapets® service and its positive impact on patient wellbeing.

The visit was also supported by the NHS Volunteer Services team, whose work in coordinating and supporting volunteers is an essential part of making these valuable services possible. It was also supported by Paul Wilson, Chief Executive Officer of Volunteer Edinburgh.

It was a privilege to welcome the Lord Provost and share this special occasion with the volunteers and Therapets®. The visit offered a meaningful opportunity to celebrate their well-deserved national recognition and to thank everyone involved for the warmth, comfort and happiness they bring to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburg and RHCYP

Congratulations to all the award-winning volunteers and Therapets®, and sincere thanks to the NHS Voluntary Services team.