HMP Castle Huntly has revealed Scotland's first prison-based assistance dog training programme.

The programme is designed to help men in custody gain valuable employment skills while providing trained dogs to assist people with dementia.

The Scottish Prison Service (SPS), Paws for Progress CIC and the Dementia Dog Project are collaborating to improve participants' well-being and dog welfare.

Students in the prison have already gained qualifications in topics including communication, numeracy, working with others, animal care and dementia studies.

Brian McKirdy, acting governor-in-charge at the open prison, said: "HMP Castle Huntly are delighted to join with partners Paws for Progress, and the Dementia Dog Project.

"This innovative project offers us the opportunity to allow offenders to build a non-criminal identity and start the journey of reintegration by helping others less fortunate than themselves.

"The building of key links with their communities greatly assists those in our care make better life choices, that reduces re-offending and ensures the SPS plays our part in achieving a Safe Scotland."

The project follows on from the success of the Paws for Progress service at HMP and YOI Polmont, where young offenders train rescue dogs.

Rebecca Leonardi, development manager and founder of Paws for Progress, said: "This inspiring project represents a true win-win-win situation.

"Students at HMP Castle Huntly are given opportunities to develop their education and skills whilst also helping others.

"This unleashes the potential of returning citizens to contribute positively to society, and strengthens links with local communities."