Unpaid carers of people with dementia will be offered flexible breaks for anything between two hours and three weeks, as part of a Richmond Council scheme.

The respite scheme is part of the council’s Shared Lives dementia service, providing carers with breaks overnight, at weekends, or for a couple of hours.

Richmond Council leader Lord True said: “Providing first-class care to our most vulnerable residents reflects the kindly heart of our community.

“From personal experience I know the immeasurable benefit of respite care.

“It is wonderful to see this new service launched.”

During June the Shared Lives Panel will be approving additional shared lives carers allowing the council to increase the capacity for referrals and the ability to offer respite.