On this page you’ll find the information you need to help decide whether to apply to VWD.
In order for VWD to accept a Register Of Interest, a Veteran must meet all of the following basic criteria:
The applicant must be currently serving, or has previously served, in one of the British Armed Forces.
The applicant must be aged 18 or over.
The applicant must have a mental health diagnosis.
The applicant must have a current or previous active therapy or treatment plan.
The applicant must be fully committed, including attendance of residential training and ongoing regular training.
The application must be completed by the Veteran.
Children in the applicant's home under the age of 5 years old.
Another person in the home with a mental health condition or learning difficulties.
Hospitalisation of the applicant within the last 6 months due to a mental health condition.
The applicant's home environment not being suitable for keeping a dog.
An existing dog/dogs in the household who are not part of the programme.
Any conviction for: animal abuse; abuse towards humans; or a conviction resulting in being listed on the sex offenders register.
The following summarises the processes that are used to select candidates to participate in our programme:
Submit a Register of Interest, which is then reviewed to determine if the basic applicant criteria is met.
Attend a PALS Meet & Greet* Day to learn more about the programme.
Complete a Full Application, and return with relevant supporting documentation.
A home visit will be scheduled to assess the suitability of the prospective home environment for a dog.
Candidates for placements or training are then determined by review.
(*Attendance of PALS Meet & Greet is a pre-requisite to a full application being accepted).
If you meet the criteria then submit a 'Register of Interest' form.
We look forward to hearing from you and we can be contacted directly if you have any further questions.