Support Dog Kelly Helps 10-Year-Old Isobella Find Her Confidence

Just two years ago, Isobella Mapstone could barely leave her home without anxiety and meltdowns. Today, the 10-year-old from Edwinstowe speaks confidently in front of large audiences, thanks to her autism assistance dog Kelly.

Isobella, who is autistic and has ADHD, struggled with everyday outings. Busy shops, loud sounds and unfamiliar environments would trigger severe distress. Her mum Chelsey described how supermarket visits could become overwhelming, with Isobella sometimes running off or hiding.

Everything changed when the family was matched with Kelly, a yellow Labrador trained by Yorkshire charity Support Dogs. After a year of training together, they officially graduated in May 2025.

Now Kelly accompanies Isobella everywhere, from supermarkets to cinemas, swimming pools and even holidays. Speaking at the charity's annual ceremony in front of 160 people, Isobella said: "This is a really special day because we are celebrating my best friend Kelly. Kelly makes me brave."

Chelsey described the transformation as life-changing: "She's our life. The change Kelly has brought to our family is incredible."