11/06/2025
As my regulars will be aware, I'm having some difficulties with my health that aren't improving, and I'm posting to be transparent about what it's like to try and work and live as a disabled person in a system designed to warehouse us out of society. Being disabled means I'm used to navigating my health every day, but recent changes in my health, compounded by challenges including the government wrongly stopping my Access to Work funding, which is meant to fund support workers and essential equipment to allow me to work, and a broken NHS and social care system, aren't going to be going away any time soon, which is impacting my ability to live and work. What I hoped was a short term blip is turning into months.
As a result, I've got to make some changes to the business to allow me to keep running it, whilst I continue to fight for the support I'm entitled to, for the medical care I need, and whilst learning to live with what seems to be a new 'normal' for me. When I took over Dunn Dogs Derby, I imagined working with clients 5-6 days a week full of 1:1s, classes and workshops, but I physically can't do it right now. Some of these changes may be disappointing to some, and I apologise if they are, but some are exciting! I love my work, and will do everything I can to keep doing it, but I need to move to a way of working that is sustainable for my health during the next 6 months.
💜 Dunn Dogs Derby is now available to hire for individuals and professionals, and we hope other trainers will be using the centre to run exciting classes and workshops on the days we are not using the centre! If you are a trainer interested in hiring the centre, please email [email protected].
🐾 Class prices will increase for the majority of classes in July and September to cover increased costs I now have to meet. Some classes may be moved or combined to best make use of the hours I am able to work.
💜 I will be reducing how many class/1:1 sessions I (Briar) do each day, as some days I have had up to 8 a day up to now! This will be capped at 6 sessions Mondays and Fridays, and 5 Wednesdays and Thursdays, but may change subject to my health whilst working out what is sustainable.
♿ I am moving some of my work online, with a focus on remote coaching for disabled dog owners, and those living with chronic health conditions and mobility difficulties. This may include the return of online workshops that were popular during COVID, so watch this space! 💻
Thank you for your understanding and patience, and to the wonderful dogs and owners who make up Briar Dunn Dog Training- we wouldn't be here without you!
