CREATIVE writers, who have been out of work for a year or more, have worked together to launch a book.

Six young people put their minds together to brainstorm, write, illustrate, publish and release their book entitled Stories To Tell.

They wrote the book as part of a 12-week creating writing programme with weekly workshops run by local author Anita Belli.

The programme is for 18 to 24-year-olds who have been unemployed for at least a year to find relevant work or training through support.

It is part of Talent Match South East, which is a Big Lottery Fund Project led by the Prince’s Trust with Southend YMCA.

The book was launched on Tuesday at the Guildhall, in Harwich, where the group has been meeting.

Jack Helsop, a participant on the programme, said: “Throughout the course that inspired this book we, the writers, collected material at an almost frightening pace, surprised perhaps by our own abilities to create.”

Anita Belli, course tutor and author, said the young writers brought their ideas, hopes and fears and their backstories to these sessions.

“From the very first session, the young people engaged with each other and with the creative process; this book of their stories and poems is a valued outcome of their hard work and resilience,” she added.

Georgeta Busuioc, of Talent Match South East specialist mentor and project co-ordinator for the course, said: “This creative writing project is one of many run by Talent Match South East and funded by the Big Lottery. “This course illustrates how all young people, under the right guidance, can be empowered to embark on a journey which will enable them to achieve their dreams.”

Paperback copies of the book can now be ordered from Amazon by searching Stories To Tell: Unlocking The Creative Mind.

For more information, email georgetabusuioc@southendymca.org.uk.