I am closely connected with Countesthorpe Academy and have seen first-hand the intense stress and anxiety that high school examinations can bring to our students. Many individuals in our society have emotional support dogs to aid them through challenging times, providing comfort and emotional stability. We believe that our students should have the same resource during their academic journey.

It's documented that, across the UK, 1 in 6 young people aged 16-24 has symptoms of a common mental disorder such as depression or an anxiety disorder (source: Mental Health of Children and Young People in England, 2017). Emotional support dogs are proven to reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and even inspire confidence in people who are anxious or isolated (source: Mayo Clinic).

In addition to the emotional benefits, interacting with dogs increases levels of the stress-reducing hormone oxytocin and decreases production of the stress hormone cortisol (source: American Pet Products Association). Given these benefits, together with the high levels of stress experienced by high school students, we request that Countesthorpe Academy allow the presence of emotional support dogs at our school.

Please support our effort to bring emotional comfort and support to our students in a time when they need it most. Sign and share this petition to implement emotional support dogs at Countesthorpe Academy.