PEOPLE in Bury can now get additional mental health support through a free online programme.

Bury Healthy Minds, run by Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust, is now offering more intensive support for people with low mood, anxiety or stress, using ‘SilverCloud’.

SilverCloud offers a number of online modules which aim to help people learn new ways of thinking and behaving, to improve their mental health and emotional wellbeing.

People will be regularly supported by a qualified therapist as they work through the online modules, which are based on proven methods such as cognitive behavioural therapy.

This supported version of SilverCloud is in addition to that which became available across Greater Manchester in April.

It is available for people over the age of 16, who live or are registered with a GP in Bury. They will be able to access the programme for up to 12 months.

Kate Kubacki, Team Leader at Bury Healthy Minds, said: “We hope this online service will help local people take the first steps towards improving their mental health.

“Anyone who wants to sign-up can self-refer through our website. They’ll gain instant access via any computer, laptop or mobile phone, and can work through various online courses at a time and pace convenient for them.

“The programme is based on cognitive behavioural therapy – this means it takes a practical approach to problem-solving. It can help to change patterns of thinking or behaviour that are often behind people's difficulties, and so change the way they feel.”

For more information and to self-refer visit: penninecare.nhs.uk/healthymindsbury