Free dementia workshops that took place across Sutton have helped over 20 families.

The sessions were held at Sutton United Football Club and the Riverside Centre in Carshalton.

They were organised by Home Instead Senior Care, who provide at-home services for the elderly.

Those in the groups gained a better understanding of dementia, and learned to identify typical signs of the condition.

Twenty-seven people attended the sessions, including representatives of Sutton Carers Centre, Sutton Shop Mobility, and the Sutton Housing Partnership.

Reverend Mark Williams from St John’s Church in Belmont also went along, he said: "I wish many more people could have been there, especially those like me who don’t have a personal family connection but will come into contact with those that have"

Tony Ward, the owner of Home Instead, said: "I was delighted with the number of people who attended our dementia workshops and with the feedback we received.

"My hope is that those who undertook the training will now be able to share their knowledge with others, causing a domino effect across the community and helping us to make Sutton a dementia friendly borough."

The sessions took place during National Dementia Awareness Week, on May 19, 20 and 22.

Further workshops are planned for September, October and November.

For more information please call 0208 773 7660 or visit www.homeinstead.co.uk/sutton.