A FIRM is offering free workshops to help relieve stress and depression.

And Burnley-born TV scriptwriter Paul Abbott, who admits to having problems with depression, has backed the move.

The reading and writing workshops are planned by Burnley-based Good Read.

Abbott, who wrote the hit series Shameless, recently spoke about how writing helps him cope with the condition.

The three different workshops, funded by the East Lancashire PCT and North East Lancs MIND Befriending Scheme, will look at different ways to write a story, writing poems and the benefits of reading poetry and stories.

Director, Janet Swan, who lives in Burnley said: "Being healthy is about two things: fixing things when they go wrong, but also trying to make sure they don't go wrong in the first place.

"By using our natural creativity, we can provide exercise for the mind. Creativity also builds our self-esteem and so increases our resilience to stress and depression."

Janet, who herself has experienced depression, added: "That personal boost is really important."

Good Read have bought inspirational poems and paintings which can be seen at the Mid Pennine Gallery, below Burnley Mechanics, especially to tie in with the workshops.

The idea for the workshops came from December's "Poems and Pints" event held in Burnley on World Mental Health Day.

A further afternoon of workshops will take place on Tuesday, May 22 at Burnley Youth Theatre.

For more information or to book a place, call Janet on 01282 414287.