A pilot programme, the first of its kind in the UK, aimed at reducing the symptoms of trauma and stress-related illnesses, is being carried out in Tavistock next month.

The post-traumatic stress disorder association StressCare is running the free ten-week pilot. It is specifically designed for anyone who has personal experience of traumatic stress, including uniformed personnel recovering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

Organisers of the pilot need eight to ten people to sign up for the course, which is being evaluated by Plymouth University and professionals from Tavistock-based Claro Learning.

The programme is based on colour immersion therapy, using Goethe's Colour Wheel and associated teachings.

It runs sequentially and has components which will include neuro linguistic programming, cognitive behavioural therapy, meditation, emotional freedom technique and transactional analysis. Also included will be practical sessions on art, drama, gardening and music.

The programme has been drawn up by Tavistock resident Caroline Keane, with support from several practitioners and professionals.

Caroline said the work to put the project together had been on-going for several years, and has been backed by almost £10,000 from the National Lottery's Awards for All programme.

Caroline said: 'The research that has gone into this has been pretty hefty over the years.

'I did an introductory workshop based on the programme in Western Australia last year and it was very successful.

'Using colour immersion therapy, the positive messages of colour over-ride the negative triggers for trauma — this is combined with all the other complementary therapies included in the course.'

Caroline said PTSD could affect anyone who had gone through a traumatic experience and also affected the friends and families of the sufferer.

'The course aims to help reduce trauma symptoms, give clear information on diet, exercise and relapse prevention, and will include sessions involving the family of sufferers.

'The course actually cost around £9,700 to put together, so whoever takes part will be benefiting from an extremely professional course with very highly experienced therapists,' said Caroline.

The programme will run on one day a week for ten weeks on Thursdays, 10am to 3.30pm in Kingdon House, starting on October 18 and running until December 13.

As there are only eight places available on the course, to book a place or for further information contact Caroline Keane on 01822 610546 or 0755 321 7463 or email [email protected]">[email protected] by October 8.