A helpline providing support to people with dementia and their carers is set to extend its hours to evenings and weekends.

The dementia helpline, operated by the health and social care charity Sue Ryder, was launched in September to offer information, signposting and emotional support to people with dementia and their relatives.

Fiona Hanlon, lead helpline co-ordinator at Sue Ryder, said: “The helpline plays a key role in supporting people with dementia, their carers and family.

“It is not always easy to identify the symptoms of dementia and people are sometimes concerned about talking with people who live with this condition, as they are not sure about how, or what they should do.”

Anyone concerned about dementia can call the helpline on 01473 353350, which is manned by trained volunteers.