TRIALS of a robot cat that began in Thurrock have resulted in more than 200 animated animals being purchased for care homes across the region.

Irene Lewsey, Head of Mental Health Transformation and Commissioning for Mid Essex Clinical Commissioning Group, who purchased an initial robot pet in Thurrock to support a resident said: "We know that for people with dementia having something to focus on, who reacts to them in a positive way can be hugely beneficial and calming. We had the pleasure in offering our first robotic cat to an agitated patient in a care home, which has proven to be a success.

"We have now invested in further robotic cats and dogs other people with dementia in homes across mid and south Essex and are already seeing very positive results.

"But we won't be stopping there, we are investing in many more tools over the coming months to support residents to have a better quality of life, both for those with dementia and for people with learning difficulties."

In addition to the 'cats and dogs', further work has been done to support people going into hospital with dementia by providing an early pilot of Magic Tables. These are sensory tables that support people with dementia by helping them to interact with music, pictures and games.

Each robocat and dog are used by one individual only.