A new free service designed to give family carers of people living with dementia a much-needed break has been launched in Powys through a partnership between Dementia Matters in Powys (DMiP) and Silver Assist Homecare until March 2027.

The new initiative, called Respite+, will provide funded, supported breaks for unpaid carers while ensuring their loved one remains safe, engaged and well supported in a friendly, dementia-aware environment.

The service will operate through the Brecon Meeting Centre Club at Kensington Baptist Church in Brecon and at Llangasty Village Hall, offering carers protected time to attend appointments, run errands, spend time with friends and family, or simply take a well-deserved break.

Respite+ combines the expertise of Dementia Matters in Powys with the professional care and support provided by Silver Assist Homecare's trained Personal Assistants. During each session, people living with dementia will be supported with companionship, meaningful activities, mobility assistance and personal care where required, all within a welcoming and supportive setting.

Sam Evans, Managing Director of Silver Assist Homecare, said: "Over the years, we've worked closely with Dementia Matters in Powys and have seen first-hand the incredible difference they make to families living with dementia.

“Many family carers provide support around the clock, often putting their own wellbeing, appointments and social lives on hold. Respite+ is about giving those carers permission to take some time for themselves, knowing their loved one is being cared for by experienced and compassionate professionals.

“We know that supporting the wellbeing of carers is just as important as supporting the person living with dementia. When carers are supported, families are stronger and people are able to remain living independently in their own communities for longer."

Silver Assist Homecare has long supported Dementia Matters in Powys through fundraising activities, sponsored events and by funding a monthly Dementia Café and Information Hub in Llangasty, helping local people access information, advice and social connection.

The new Respite+ service, sourced by DMiP, builds on that partnership and aims to address one of the most common challenges raised by families affected by dementia: the need for reliable, accessible respite.

Deborah Gerrard, Chief Officer of Dementia Matters in Powys, said: "Many carers tell us they struggle to find time for themselves, whether that's attending appointments, catching up with friends or simply taking a break. Respite+ has been developed to provide practical support while ensuring people living with dementia continue to enjoy meaningful activities, companionship and professional support."

Transport may also be available for those who would otherwise struggle to attend. The service is funded to the end of March 2027 and is currently completely free for carers of people living with dementia who are members of the DMiP Brecon Meeting Centre Club, helping to ensure that cost is never a barrier to accessing support.

Anyone interested in learning more about Respite+ or the Brecon Meeting Centre Club can contact Dementia Matters in Powys by calling 01597 821166, by emailing [email protected] or by visiting www.dementiamatterspowys.org.uk