Latest News – June 2025
New Purposeful Placement Dog Program launched
Posted by: Blue Ribbon Foundation
The Blue Ribbon Foundation, Protecting the Protectors and the Victoria Police Dog Squad, recently launched a new initiative, the Purposeful Placement Program.
The program will provide companion support to police veterans who have retired from the force after being diagnosed with PTSD. All three parties worked together to provide an alternative to a Therapy Dog which are currently provided through the Police Assistance Dog program. Therapy Dogs are provided to those who are unable to perform tasks which we take as being the norm.
Retired Detective Sergeant Peter Bellion is the first very worthy recipient of this new program, having retired from the force due to his exposure to over 1000 fatalities in his career at the Major Collision Unit.
Peter is constantly providing support to others within various charitable organizations keeping himself active by helping others. His dog of 19 years recently died which left a gap in his life.
After a conversation with Peter, Blue Ribbon liaised with Acting Sergeant Andrew Mutch of the Dog Squad and the idea was born. Once supported by his superiors, it was formally signed off by Assistant Commissioner Mick Hermans.
The purposeful placement of dogs that do not necessarily meet the strict operational criteria will now be a companion to our police veterans who need support. This is a great outcome with no cost though the first year, with veterinary insurance to be provided by Protect the Protectors being Glenn Hollands tireless work in fighting PTSD.
Due to the limited number of dogs that will be available through the Dog Squad, discussions are taking place with Assistance Dogs Australia who are very keen to support when they can. Please contact the Blue Ribbon Foundation or https://protectingtheprotectors.com/ for more information on access to this program and or a Therapy Dog.
Photo: BRF Board Member and Retired Detective Superintendant Pat Boyle, Assistant Commissioner Mick Mermans, Retired Detective Sergeant Peter Bellion, Glenn (Dutchy) Holland from #Flightingptsdvicpol and the star of the show Nala.
Third Assistance Dog Nelson finds a home
Posted by: Blue Ribbon Foundation
Des is the latest recipient of the Victoria Police Blue Ribbon Foundation PTSD Assistance Dog (PAD) initiative – in partnership with Protecting the Protectors led by Sgt Glenn Holland and Assistance Dogs Australia.
Des served with Victoria Police for 20 years until 2001; retiring as a Sergeant ill health – PTSD. Here is his journey and story:
“My experiences within the force left me in a constant state of depression and anxiety which hit me most days at some level,” said Des.
“Some days it was minor and on others it resulted in panic attacks – usually at night which grew to uncontrollable and severe body limb shakes and crying. Still after all of these years, I go through periods when I call a friend to talk me through it nightly.
“I have made progress over the years and generally come across as a confident person and I do what I have to do in life, although hiding these symptoms has also become a skill.
“A once bold and confident man gets around cautiously these days, careful not to attract any conflict. Since I have been partnered with “Nelson” his empathy together with the interactions whilst out and about or at home, alleviates symptoms and replaces them with freedom from the anguish.
“I encourage all Veterans suffering PTSD to explore the life changing benefits I have received through this program. I am so grateful to the Blue Ribbon Foundation and Protecting the Protectors, as what they have done has changed my life – thank you.”
The PAD program was launched in 2022 through the generosity of our supporters at the Blue Ribbon Ball and jointly financed by Protecting the Protectors.
