Ealing Mencap is looking for volunteers to help work as home-based respite care workers in the borough.

'If people can help for just a couple of hours a week, it gives parents or carers a break and helps build up confidence for autistic people or those who have Downs Syndrome or are in wheelchairs,' said Alison Murphy, Mencap respite co-ordinator.

She said activities care workers take part in can be anything from doing puzzles to going to the shops or swimming with people with disabilities.

To volunteer or find out more, call Alison on 020 8575 9199.