A new training scheme has been launched to help businesses learn about a new approach to problem solving and goal setting.

The scheme has been launched by the Great Place: Lakes and Dales (GPLD) programme, with the first session held at the Dalesbridge Centre in Austwick, in North Yorkshire, earlier this month.

GPLD's creative consultant Emily Wilson said: "Attendees learn how to use creative methods to think about their goals and how to achieve them.

“It's a new way of working and thinking which has been tested in Sweden and Poland and is increasingly talked about in the UK."

She said the training uses the concept of "cultural democracy" to actively engage people in discussion and decision making.

Forthcoming sessions, workshops and activities will focus on how this happens in a practical way.

Attendee Steph Dwyer, of Yorkshire Dales Guides, is applying the technique to developing an adventure camp she has planned for teenagers this summer.

She explained: "I am bringing young people in so I can listen to what adventure means to them.

"The young people will not only have a say in planning the camp, they will help me deliver it too. I am listening to them at the same time as them learning from me."

The professional development programme was delivered on behalf of GPLD by 64 Million Artists, a social enterprise which works in collaboration with various organisations including Arts Council England to help inspire creativity.

Those taking part in the programme include Kendal Mountain Festival, Lakeland Arts, Sedbergh Booktown Literary Trust, Grizedale Arts and Kendal Torchlight Festival, as well as South Lakeland District Council.

It is hoped more sessions will be announced in the future.