A HOMECARE provider took part in a virtual dementia experience to help train staff.

Bluebird Care, based in Braintree, sent staff to the head office in Elmstead Market to experience the Virtual Dementia Tour, which replicates how people living with dementia might feel.

They wore headphones, gloves and glasses to take away their primary senses and recreate the real anxiety dementia sufferers feel.

A number of relatives of customers with dementia also participated to share their experiences.

They said the experience, provided by Training 2 Care Ltd, was very powerful.

Mark Topps, Registered Manager of Bluebird Care Braintree and Uttlesford, said: "By adding this experience to our on-going training programme, we can bring an enhanced level of care to our customers and help us to retain our position as the leading home care provider in the area”.