A COLLEGE which helps people overcome mental health problems celebrated a one year anniversary with a graduation.

Around 180 students at Brighton and Hove Recovery College marked their achievements with a ceremony at the Brighthelm Community Centre, North Road, Brighton, on Thursday.

The college offers courses so people can learn new skills to help cope with their condition.

Brighton Pavilion MP Caroline Lucas presented the students with certificates of achievement.

The event was one of four ceremonies which also took place last week to praise students across Sussex. There were 49 students who also graduated from Worthing, 25 in Hastings and 28 in Eastbourne.

College manager Graham Jordan said: “It’s been a great year for everybody involved. Over the past academic year the college has provided 66 courses to 640 students. 17 peer trainers, many of whom were or are students themselves, co-developed and co-delivered the courses alongside people who have gained experience through training or work.

“I’m thrilled that so many students are graduating from the college this year. Our team of peer trainers have also excelled themselves in the development and delivery of a diverse and exciting range of courses that have made such a positive difference to the students’ lives.”

Courses at the college range from one day workshops to longer courses running for eight weeks, on subjects including managing depression and psychosis and returning to learning. Other courses are also available across East and West Sussex.