We are Abbots Grange, from Solutions In services.

We are a mental health supported living scheme in the heart of Chester and first hand experiencers of how much Chester Zoo and their animal therapy promotes positive impacts on our mental health. Animals are one of our biggest passions, and we always get our wildlife fix from visiting Chester Zoo.

As you may have heard, the zoo is to be closed indefinitely due to the government deeming it not suitable for the public, in light of COVID 19.  This has come as a huge shock to us at Abbots Grange and the deep devastation cannot be truly understood by us as individuals with not only mental health problems, but other difficulties, such as learning difficulties, cognitive impairment, physical health concerns & ASD. We frequently visit the Zoo as a household, even if it’s just to sit and have a coffee there.  Chester Zoo and it’s wonderful amenities really plays a massive part in our lives.

We understand we cannot produce the £1.6million pounds the Zoo needs to stay afloat, but we certainly want to do our bit to help.

SO! With the celebrations of Chester Zoo being open for 89 years, we have agreed to embark on a 5km walk along the Shropshire Union Canal in order to raise awareness, money, and bond as a team for an important matter. Like said, the zoo does fantastic things for our mental health and we feel very passionately about returning the favour and doing all we can to help an organisation that has been so helpful to us.

Spread the word to your friends and family, donate, share, get involved, sign petitions, do whatever you can to help - we are pleading!

All money raised will go directly to Chester Zoo, to help support the massive monthly food and vet bills.

We would like to thank you all in advance.