A CHRISTCHURCH care home is hoping to raise £4,000 to buy a therapeutic robotic seal that 'gives back the love it receives.'

Avon View Care Home on Loring Road is fundraising to buy a Paro, an advanced interactive robot developed in Japan, which aims to allow people to enjoy the benefits of animal therapy in hospital and care environments.

Melissa Kennedy from Avon View Care Home said: "A company that sells them came in to do a little show and tell with the staff and our residents and it is amazing."

She added: "I deal with the dementia unit and see that the patients get put on medication but I wanted to look at the alternatives. I looked at pet therapy, but there was so much risk involved.

"We took a Paro round to all of our residents, including those receiving end-of-life care, and for one resident in particular, it really put a smile on her face.

"We have raised £1,500 so far and ideally I'd like us to be able to have it in time for Christmas."

Melissa says that their first fundraising event, exclusively for staff and friends, is being held on Saturday, May 23 and then there's a tea dance on Sunday, June 7 for residents.

According to the Paro Robot website, the seal has sensors allowing it to tell the difference between light and dark, when it is being stroked or held and can recognise 'the direction of voice and words.' It can move its head and legs, make sounds and imitate the voice of a real baby harp seal.

"The idea is to increase their quality of life as they have lost their homes and their independence. When we talk to the residents, it can sometimes be difficult to make the link or get through to them, but we hope that the Paro will bring out the smile on their faces."

Pauline Lawrence, who also works at the home, said: "We have had a trial of a Paro in the home and to me, the important thing is that it reciprocates the love that you give to the seal and increases their endorphins. Even though it costs £4,000, it lasts and will go on forever."