Scholarly Impact Report 2023

CATHERINE MCAULEY SCHOOL OF NURSING AND MIDWIFERY, UCC

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PART A: TEACHING, CONTRIBUTION TO COMMUNITY AND PRACTICE, AWARDS

Promoting Academic Wellbeing & Support (PAWS)

apart is its distinctive partnership with MCC, acknowledging the evolving research that underscores the benefits of human animal interaction. Project lead, Dr Irene Hartigan observed the impact of these specially bred and trained dogs and initiated the collaboration with MCC, with support from Dr Michael Byrne. MCC PAWS @ UCC is a 3-year pilot project (2023-2026) funded in year 1 by the University Mental Health Group at UCC. MCC team visit the campus regularly with therapy dogs to support campus activities. Thereby, enhancing the overall wellbeing of UCC students and staff. MCC PAWS @ UCC has successfully nurtured a sense of belonging and strengthened social connections among students, staff, and the wider community. MCC dogs serve as catalysts for unity, bringing together individuals from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and experiences. With over 40 volunteer handlers trained on campus, the program has received praise for its eye-opening experience, emphasizing opportunities for making social connections and responsible stewardship. Staff member Dr Patrick Cotter and student Linh My Troung are the first members of the School of Nursing and Midwifery to be matched with MCC dogs. There is a regular presence of paws about the Brookfield campus and weekly at the Boole library.

The School of Nursing & Midwifery, UCC have embarked on a dog wellbeing programme known as MCC PAWS-Promoting Academic Wellbeing & Support. My Canine Companion (MCC) is Ireland’s largest service dog provider, providing over 60% of the country’s service dogs each year. Although MCC operate on a limited budget they deliver multiple dog programmes based on a unique model. PAWS represents an innovative collaboration that fosters community engagement through the mutually beneficial exchange of knowledge, experience, and resources. What sets this wellness program