PEOPLE in South Craven with mental health problems could receive help from a new project.

North Yorkshire County Council has commissioned a scheme which aims to reduce stigma and break down barriers.

The venture will be delivered across the whole county by the charity, Scarborough Survivors.

It aims to encourage social contact between those with mental health issues and the public.

County Councillor Caroline Dickinson, executive member for public health, said: "This project provides a fantastic opportunity to break down the stigma that is commonly associated with mental health.

"The scheme is based on the national Time to Change programme. This includes discussions and conversations between people who have experienced mental health problems and those who have not.

"When people talk to each other and establish common ground, prejudices and assumptions are often challenged and replaced with mutual understanding and respect – which can lead to changes in attitudes and behaviour."

The project will provide grants to enable individuals and groups of residents who have experienced mental health issues to organise events promoting social contact.

Andrea Woolcott, chief executive of Scarborough Survivors, said: "We are looking forward to working with the county council to help to tackle mental health stigma across North Yorkshire."

More information about the project will appear at scarboroughsurvivors.org.uk.