TO celebrate University Mental Health Day, on Thursday, March 9, Teesside University created a special award for a unique team member to recognise their work supporting student wellbeing.

Brengle the therapy dog has had an honorary ‘dogtorate’ bestowed upon him in recognition of the hugely positive impact he has had on his regular visits to the university campus.

Golden retriever Brengle has weekly visits to the university with his owner, Middlesbrough Salvation Army church leader Captain Naomi Kelly, as part of the university’s faith and reflection service.

The Northern Echo: Brengle receiving his honorary degree

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His friendly demeanour helps break the ice and encourages students to engage with the faith and reflection service, while his calm presence provides reassurance in difficult and stressful situations.

Brengle has helped support a cohort of students who had suffered a bereavement and has been on hand to support students as they come out of exams.

Captain Kelly said: “We get a very positive response from all the people Brengle has been in contact with.

“Over the time he’s been at Teesside University, there’s been so many students saying how their mental health has been boosted and how they’ve felt the love from him.

“A lot of people who come to see Brengle might start off from a place of stress and by the time they leave, they’re laughing and talking about how relaxed they feel.

The Northern Echo: Brengle the therapy dog in the SLB Student Life Building during Teesside Calling, Welcome week, freshers week Transformation

“He shows unconditional love to everybody he meets. He loves getting cuddles and loves people chatting to him.

“It’s a great honour to receive this award and we’re delighted that the university is recognising the good work that Brengle has done and the support he has given across the campus.”

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University Mental Health Day is organised by Student Minds, the UK’s student mental health charity, and works to ensure that no student is held back by their mental health.

Brengle’s visits to Teesside University are part of a range of support offered by the university to improve student mental wellbeing.

Sarah Bishop, assistant director of student and library services at Teesside University, said: "Brengle does a fantastic job, encouraging people to engage with our support services and providing them with love and reassurance. We’re delighted to create this special honour for him, he’s a worthy recipient.”