Funding boost for carers' scheme

A project to develop new ways for carers in Bristol to take flexible breaks has been given £750,000.

The scheme will run for two years with pilots in the Southmead and Lawrence Hill areas of the city.

The government investment follows the city's selection as one of the Department of Health's Carers Breaks demonstration sites.

The successful partnership bid was led by the city council, NHS Bristol and the Princess Royal Trust Carers Centre.

Councillor Bev Knott, cabinet member for care and neighbourhoods, said: "Carers perform a vital role, looking after millions of frail, elderly and disabled people with the minimum of support from the state.

"Around one-in-10 people in the city is a carer and they're one of our key partners in providing social care. Having a short break from caring is often vital to help people continue as carers."