People affected by a range of mental health problems are being encourage to take part in a pilot project that focus on wellbeing and recovery.

The Wellbeing and Recovery College in North Ayrshire will offer a range of educational courses and workshops.

The free sessions are open to anyone over 16 who is affected by mental health issues.

Carers and family members will also be able to access help and support from the recovery college.

Councillor Robert Foster said: "The Wellbeing and Recovery College aims to create an ethos of recovery in the community by providing transformative educational courses, resources and safe spaces for people interested in mental health recovery.

"Wellbeing and Recovery Colleges have become established in other areas across the UK and have produced positive results.

"Recovery Colleges let people know that they are not alone in the community and that others are dealing with similar challenges and difficulties."

Local people affected by mental health problems have helped develop the courses and will be co-delivering the sessions where possible.

Mr Foster added: "The variety of courses available will strive to help people improve their coping and self-management skills, give them an increased sense of empowerment and, perhaps most importantly of all, give them greater hope and optimism for the future."

The pilot project will run until June, if successful it will be developed and expanded.