PETS and PICASSO CIC

Meet the Team

Anna Corwood - Director and Registered Nurse

Hello, I am Anna, Founder and Director of Pets and Picasso CIC. I am a firm believer in offering a wholistic approach to wellbeing, thinking outside of the box and the benefits of alternative therapies. Through Pets and Picasso CIC, we want to achieve a safe space for all people to come and relax in an environment where there is no prejudice or judgement, and everyone gets treated as an individual.

I am a Registered Nurse having qualified from the University of Surrey with a First- Class Honours Degree. I have worked across various specialities within the NHS over the past 8 years including accident and emergency, learning disability team, supported living and dementia care. My area of expertise is Community Nursing, focusing on Care of the Elderly and End of Life Care. I have also achieved a 1st Class Post Graduate Module in Advance Care Planning at End of Life from the University of Plymouth.

I am currently undertaking my master’s degree at Plymouth Marjon University studying Arts, Health and Wellbeing.

I have completed my Level 3 Diploma in Foundation Counselling and my Level 3 Animal Assisted Therapy Diploma which I absolutely loved.

I have previously also worked as an Occupational Health and Wellbeing Technician for Great Western Railway. I have also worked as an Equine Assistant at The Donkey Sanctuary Ivybridge which was a brilliant opportunity. I volunteered here for 4 years as a teenager which is where my passion for Animal Assisted Therapy was sparked. Here we offered Donkey Assisted Activities to vulnerable individuals with the aim of helping the development of life skills and self-awareness. This was invaluable and confirmed to me that my dream to open my own centre was absolutely what I wanted to do with my life!

My hobbies mainly include outdoor activities such as walking and kayaking, spending time with my animals and crafting.

Luke Gash - Director

Hi, I’m Luke, one of the founders and directors of Pets and Picasso CIC. I started this journey with my partner Anna when we were discussing our desire to support individuals and promote wellbeing and social inclusion in Plymouth.

I studied health and social care at college which is where my passion for people started. I worked within the care sector for 8 years specialising in emergency care, children and adults with complex needs prior to moving across to supporting individuals with independent living. I have since worked in customer service and public relations within the transport sector.

I am hugely passionate about people and recognise how important it is to care for yourself to improve your mental and physical health. I bring a very practical element to the team with a hands-on approach. I enjoy supporting and guiding individuals to develop new skills that will help to enrich people’s live, promote independence and reduce social isolation. Men’s mental health is a particular area of interest for me.

My hobbies mainly include adventure-based activities such as kayaking, spending time with our animals and I also enjoy the occasional baking spree especially at Christmas!

Shioya Walters - Director

Hello, my name is Shioya and I am one of the Directors of Pets and Picasso CIC. I live and work on our mixed family farm here in South Devon, which we have had for over 25 years. Our farm keeps us very busy growing crops like wheat, barley and potatoes, and also rearing sheep, cattle and Christmas turkeys. I love being out and about in nature getting to spend time with the animals, especially with my Grandchildren!

Previously, I was a special needs teacher and I have also spent time teaching at a local Pre- school. I have a passion for helping people and supporting them to reach their full potential through a range of different activities. I feel very lucky and excited to be involved in Pets and Picasso CIC. I am sure we will make a huge difference to many individuals and families in and around Plymouth.

Yasmin Hambly - Animal Care Assistant

Hi, I’m Yasmin, a proud pet parent of my dog Max and my many reptiles. I am the animal care assistant. At work you can usually find me cleaning, playing with or cuddling the animals (I mean who could wish for a better job!).

I have always been fascinated by animals, but as an adult they have become the biggest focus in my life and the reason I get out of bed each morning! I initially studied Health and Social Care at college as I wanted to make a difference to people’s health and wellbeing, but have found even more fulfilment being able to do this though helping people make the most of and enjoy their animals. I decided to switch my career path and have completed my Level 3 Work-Based Animal Care Certificate at college, and I have completed many other short courses on a variety of animal care topics. I am currently undertaking a Level 3 Canine Nutrition Diploma.

I have a particular interest in holistic wellbeing and naturalistic keeping, species appropriate nutrition and enrichment.

Meet the Animals

Rabbits

Barney and Lottie

Pablo and Leonardo

Star, Luna and Eclipse

Guinea Pigs

Celia
Frosty
Cinnamon
Toffee
Nutmeg
Flower
Daisy

Rats and Mice

Severide

Remy

Emile

Field

Reptiles

Jake- Royal Python

Snack- Corn snake

Dolly- Horsefield Tortoise

Flame- Crested Gecko

Marlow- Leopard Gecko

Freddie- Bearded Dragon

Invertebrates

COMING SOON!

Our Animals at Pets & Picasso

All of our animals are part of our family and we love them all dearly. Their health and welfare is our topmost priority. We follow the most up to date research and best practice guidelines when caring for our animals.

All of our animals have the freedom to choose whether they want to participate in sessions. We will never force any of our animals to interact with clients if the animal does not want to. Any animal showing signs of stress, illness or any other concern will immediately be removed from the session. We will discuss this with our clients and highlight the importance of respecting the animals’ boundaries as well as their health and welfare needs.

We welcome applications from individuals wanting to volunteer and support Pets and Picasso CIC. Animal care and session support roles available.