West Berkshire Council has launched a trial using robotic pets to help reduce loneliness in care home residents, including those with dementia or learning disabilities.

The android companions have realistic fur and sensors that respond to touch and motion, mimicking real animals.

The trial will evaluate their impact on residents in three local care homes.

Care home operator Barchester Healthcare said the robots provide predictable, nonjudgmental interactions that can evoke calmness, reduce anxiety, and boost well-being, the BBC has reported.

The specific care homes participating in the trial have not been disclosed.