BOURNEMOUTH’S cat café is holding a series of wellbeing events to encourage people to talk about mental health.

Pause Cat Café in Old Christchurch Road opened its doors last February and is the south’s first cat café.

It is home to 12 rescue cats and is founded on a mission of kindness to animals, the community and the environment.

Jaya Da Costa, owner of Pause Cat Café, said: “The #FelineGood campaign aims to bring a bit of joy to the local community at what is a difficult time of year for many, by addressing the issues of depression and anxiety, get people talking and encourage people to take positive action to help themselves and others via a range of health and wellbeing events.”

The events include cat yoga, mindfulness, positive thinking and creative workshops.

According to statistics, 25 per cent of people in the UK suffer from a mental health issue.

As part of the campaign, Pause Cat Café aims to reduce exam stress by inviting students to study with cats in the café. There will be free entry on weekdays throughout exam period subject to terms and conditions.

Spending time with animals has been found to reduce stress and anxiety and release the feel-good hormone serotonin.

To find out more about events, visit pausecatcafe.