The Paws4Minds Team

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Together, Ian Blakemore and Noodle the English Pointer offer a fresh and powerful approach to improving mental health and wellbeing. We bring together expert mental health coaching and the comforting presence of a Wellbeing Support Dog to create a safe, engaging, and impactful experience.

 

Noodle:

Noodle isn’t just part of the team—he’s the heart of it. With his gentle, calm, and playful nature, Noodle creates a welcoming, non-judgmental space that helps people open up and feel safe. Noodle's support is holistic, he naturally helps by:

 

• Naturally reducing stress levels, by reducing cortisol reduction

• Improves mood by the increased release of serotonin, a hormone that helps us to feel happy​

• Increases engagement by increased release of oxytocin, a hormone which helps people to form bonds & develop social interaction skills

• By stroking, fussing & interacting with Noodle, Motor Neurone Skills develop / increase. He provides a fun, enjoyable way to helping develop control muscles that are essential for movement, speaking, & breathing.

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Ian Blakemore – Founder of Paws4Minds

Founded by Ian Blakemore, a Level 5 qualified Mental Health & Wellbeing Coach, Paws4Minds is committed to providing supportive, engaging, and educational experiences for both organisations and individuals.

With over 13 years of experience in pet care and a deep understanding of mental health, Ian combines compassion with professional insight to create safe, meaningful & enjoyable ways for growth and wellbeing.

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Qualifications:

• Level 5 Diploma in Mental Health & Wellbeing Awareness

• Mental Health First Aid at Work – Level 2

• City & Guilds Level 3 in Kennel Management

• BA Hons Journalism

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ian’s passion lies in supporting people on their mental wellbeing journey. By blending professional coaching with the therapeutic benefits of working alongside animals—especially Noodle—he helps others build emotional resilience, confidence, and connection.

 

Where & How Paws4Minds work:

 

 In Education Noodle Supports students and staff during:

• Classroom activities

• Open days

• Exam periods

 

Noodle helps ease stress and encourages mindfulness in learning environments.

In Care Homes

 

Promotes wellbeing through:

• Comforting interaction

• Memory stimulation

• Light-hearted companionship

 

Noodle brings joy and often sparks warm, nostalgic conversations.

In Workplaces

 

Enhances staff sessions by:

• Easing anxiety

• Encouraging participation

• Promoting wellbeing culture

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Why It Works

Noodle helps break down barriers and build trust in wellbeing workshops.

Noodle’s calming presence—combined with Ian’s Level 5 CPCAB training in Mental Health & Wellbeing—creates a supportive, transformative environment where people feel truly heard and supported.

 

Get in Touch

 

Are you interested in working alongside Paws4Minds with your school, organisation, or care setting? To discuss or for more information please feel free to contact us:

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Email: paws4minds@gmail.com
Call: 07789 901515
 

 

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