AN East Lancashire dad who was was left traumatised by a vicious assault in a nightclub has launched a new support group for men who have suffered violence and anxiety issues.

Simon Anderson said he spent several years being ‘bounced’ between different support services, after an unprovoked attack in 2007, and wanted to launch a group to ensure people get the right help more quickly.

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The 33-year-old has teamed up with the Open Door Centre in Colne and East Lancashire Community Restart Service to establish Life Link, which was visited by Pendle mayor Graham Roach last week.

Simon, who lives in Colne, said: “My problems started when I was assaulted in 2007, I received a brain injury and lost a fifth of my frontal lobe. Although I recovered physically I began suffering from severe anxiety and depression and was eventually diagnosed with post traumatic stress disorder.

“My life went on a downward spiral, being pushed from pillar to post with professional health services not knowing what help to give, but then I began learning about myself on various courses at the Open Door centre.”

Simon said meeting others who had gone through similar experiences helped enormously, to realise he was not alone and to help signpost him to the right professionals.

He had to give up his job as an insurance assessorbut decided to set up the group to help other men.He hopes members will take part in outdoor activities such as green woodworking and gardeningor simply to chat and have a brew. The group meets every other Friday at Colne Open Door, in Great George Street, from 10am to 12 noon. For more information call 01282 860 342.

Councillor Roach said: “This is a really important issue and I think this is a worthwhile group. There is a lack of this kind of support for vulnerable men.”