The Sycamores care home in Newton, Hyde, has a new resident, Freddie the Robot cat, which was donated by the local church, St Mary's, also in Newton. The vicar, Revd Sheila O'Flaherty, and the congregation raised the £100 needed.
Sheila first heard about the robot cats from Tameside Rotary Club, who explained that they can often help people who suffer from dementia as an effective way to help relax those who otherwise might become agitated and confused.
The Rotary Club loaned St Mary's a robot cat so that they could see the effects for themselves. The cat joined the congregation during services for several weeks at the church, where it's meowing, stretching, rolling over, and purring would amuse and delight.
Convinced by the therapeutic benefits of the robot cat, the congregation set about raising £100 to purchase one for the local care home, where it has been very much enjoyed by the residents.