The public is being invited to view a robotic baby seal that is bringing therapeutic benefits to people with dementia and learning difficulties.

The furry Harp seal ‘PARO’, which responds to touch and speech, was invented by Professor Takanori Shibata from Japan and is being researched by Dr Penny Dodds, Nurse Lecturer Practitioner with the University of Brighton’s School of Health Sciences. She is exploring the introduction of PARO to dementia care within Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust.

Professor Shibata will be attending the open event at Room 129, Mayfield House on the university’s Falmer Campus, Brighton, between 9am and 4.30pm on Thursday (13 April).

Also attending will be Professor James Barilla, the USA naturalist who has written a book on robots inspired by nature. Dr Dodds will introduce PARO and Age UK representatives will speak on how the robotic seal has been received by day centre visitors.

Don’t miss out – Email P.Dodds@brighton.ac.uk to book your place now.