A major extension to services to help islanders with mental health issues opens today in Jersey.
The Jersey Recovery College gives Islanders access to education and training opportunities around recovery and wellbeing.
From today, the college is now online and can taking bookings from islanders.
It is estimated 20% of islanders experience a mental health issue in any 12 month period.
The College, which is partly funded from the States of Jersey Mental Health Strategy, is currently trialling a number courses that are being attended by more than 70 students.
It is hoped their feedback will shape the service in preparation for its first public semester in May.
Beth Moore, Manager at the College, says the amount of energy to make the service a success has been "truly inspiring".
"We still have a long way to go to banish the stigmas surrounding mental health but Islanders of all backgrounds have come forward to offer their skills and experience. Our focus on education and recovery has certainly been warmly received.
The College offers a new approach that complements existing services provided by Health and other community organisations. Co-production will be at the heart of everything we do - every course and workshop offered will be co-designed and co-run by trainers with lived experience working alongside trainers who are subject-matter professionals.
– Beth Moore, Jersey Recovery College Manager
Recovery Colleges have already proven successful in the UK and aim to provide education to people recovering from mental health problems.
The idea is to give people knowledge and enhance their skills to help them rebuild their lives.