YOUNGSTERS are being encouraged to talk about death, obesity and stress through a project which has just received extra money.

No Filter gets young people to discuss things affecting young people through internet blogs, vlogs and podcasts.

The scheme is run by Colchester Council and Essex County Council and has just been given £20,000 by two health charities.

Engaging Libraries, which is run by the Carnegie UK Trust and Wellcome Trust, is behind the funding.

Councillor Tina Bourne, the portfolio holder for housing and communities on Colchester Council, said she is pleased the two charities have recognised the importance of No Filter.

She said: "We know from a growing body of research that an increasing number of children today experience anxiety, depression and anger.

"No Filter project is an avenue for helping young people find their voice in ways that can help them build the self-confidence, resilience and mutual support they need to live healthy, happy lives."

As part of the scheme, Colchester Library and Community Hub will hold video workshops for young people to look into coping with stress and anxiety.

Martyn Evans, the chief executive of Carnegie UK Trust, said he was excited by the programme.

He said: “Public libraries are unique, trusted places at the heart of local communities.

"The Engaging Libraries programme gives libraries the chance opportunity to engage with the public on a range of complex health and wellbeing issues and provide a safe space for debate, discussion, interaction and learning.”

The project can be followed on social media using the hashtags #nofilter and #expressyourself.