EAST Lothian Council is launching a new series of mini-soap operas it has recorded to help residents tackle benefits issues.

The council previously launched its first mini-soaps last year.

Now, four more short dramas are available online, designed to cover worries people may be having dealing with changes to their benefits resulting from the UK Government’s welfare reform programme.

The new videos, which have also been supported by the East of Scotland housing advice Hub and Bridges Project, explain how to solve benefit, housing and financial problems.

Each mini-soap highlights escape routes from a life disaster, using council and advice agencies.

The videos, based on real-life situations, have been written and acted out by a mix of amateur and professional actors, guided by Media Education and council experts.

Teenager Deryn Dryden, 18, had a starring role in the videos, both in front of and behind the camera, as he helped film them.

He said one, Sanctions, which highlights ways to avoid a benefits sanction, was his favourite.

“We had real fun making the Sanctions video,” he said. “I was more involved in making it; I helped to script it and acted in it too. I liked acting – I don’t mind being the centre of attention!

“I didn’t know much about sanctions before I started but I certainly know a lot now. I’d definitely go out of my way not to get one!

“I think videos are a good way of getting the message across to young people who might be facing a sanction. Sometimes people find a video easier than someone telling them.” Find out more about welfare reform and support over changes to benefits at eastlothian.gov.uk/welfarereform