A NEW support group is to start in Warrington next month aiming at helping men who are struggling with their emotional wellbeing.

Directions will also be a place where men can chat to others who are feeling lost and going through a difficult part of their life.

The group has been founded by Orford resident Chris Judge, who felt compelled to make a difference after losing a family member last year.

“Suicide is still the biggest killer of men under 50, and men in general are thought of as people who don't ask for help when they need it,” said the 40-year-old.

“After being affected by my cousin's suicide last year I decided to start a group for men where they can meet others who are also struggling.

“They can then work together and help each other through their problems.”

Chris also decided to form the group after his experiences working in the National Probation Service and as a director for a drug and alcohol charity.

“Having spent the past 15 years working in the National Probation Service and for charity, I was always struck that the clients are overwhelmingly male,” he added.

“Men everywhere are finding life really tough and even though we are told that it’s a man's world, this perception is based on very few and not the majority.

“We really want to help men understand how to get support, understand their problems and put ways in place to keep themselves safe.”

Following a recent YouGov poll, it was revealed that one in four young men are turning to self-harm as a result of depression, anxiety and stress.

It is also true that in the UK, men are three times more likely to take their own lives than women, and suicide is the most common cause of death for men aged 20-49 years in England and Wales.

Directions will hold its first meeting on Wednesday, September 11 at 6.30pm at The Gateway on Sankey Street.

Any men who want to make contact with the group can call 07894 971 434 or email chris.judge@directionscharity.org.uk.