A charity is offering virtual lessons in stand-up comedy for people affected by mental health concerns.

The training sessions, run by Headspace Bolton, are led by professional comedians who use laughter to support people struggling with their mental health.

The group's members were forced to stop their physical meetings because of the coronavirus pandemic, but have now taken the already-popular training online.

Now the group is continuing on Skype, holding continuing the scriptwriting and planning improvisation sessions over Skype so people who are self-isolating can be included.

Ginny Allende-Cullen, Project Coordinator at Headspace Bolton, said: “Our members really appreciate the routine and human contact, which is so important to their well being.

(Image: Headspace)

"It’s so important to continue as much as we can during this time.

"One man who wasn't able to join the group previously, due to having pneumonia, is now able to join in online, and one woman who used to be a member but had to leave is now able to return as she has been unable to work after having to self-isolate.

"It also gives the opportunity for people who may not have had the courage to join at first, to now join in online."

Headspace Bolton is funded with money raised by Health Lottery North West.

They are also running online podcasting, scriptwriting and stand up and sketch writing courses for group members.

But as demand increases for services to help people stay connected and healthy, charities like Headspace Bolton could struggle and are asking for support.

(Image: Headspace)

John Hume, CEO of People’s Heath Trust which distributes money raised through The Health Lottery said: “This is a difficult time for local people and for the local charities which do an amazing job supporting them.

"Some are using technology and other methods to make sure people stay connected, but we know that as the virus gets worse, demand will increase greatly.

“We desperately need to be able to keep supporting local charities and the only way we can do this is if we receive more good causes money raised through The Health Lottery.

"So if you’re an existing customer - thank you for continuing to support and if you’re new to this, please consider supporting local charities by playing The Health Lottery.”

Ms Allende-Cullen said: "Anyone supporting The Health Lottery at this time, is helping groups like us who would otherwise be vulnerable."