AFTER suffering extreme bullying and having the courage to speak up against it, a man has now been shortlisted for a national award.

Chris Holden, from Winsford, has been nominated by the national disability charity, Sense, in recognition of his campaigning work to tackle cyber-bullying, motivated by his own experience as a disabled man.

The 37-year-old, who is autistic, has previously experienced such extreme bullying that he has attempted to take his own life.

But, his connection with mental health group ‘Rainbow After The Storm’ helped to grow his confidence and taught him new coping skills.

And it wasn’t long before he became an anti-bullying ambassador for the group, helping others affected by this issue.

As part of the role, Chris launched a nationwide campaign to raise some important awareness.

He has now been shortlisted for ‘Campaigner of the year’ at the 2021 Sense Awards.

Chris said: "It's amazing that I have been shortlisted for this amazing prize.

"As a young man with autism, who nearly lost my life due to bullying online, I now spend my time talking openly about my experiences of cyber-bullying and hoping that I can make a change for others in that situation."

Sense supports children, young people and adults in their home and in the community, as well as in their education and transition to adulthood.

In addition to practical support to families, Sense also offers advice, short breaks and family events, and campaigns for the rights of people with complex disabilities to take part in life. 

The Sense Awards recognise the outstanding achievements of people with complex disabilities, as well as the staff, carers, family members, volunteers and fundraisers who support them.

Sense chief executive, Richard Kramer, said: "No one should ever have to experience any kind of bullying, but Chris has turned this experience into something positive that will help others.

"We’re delighted to shortlist Chris as our ‘Campaigner of the Year’ and wish him the greatest success in his work."

The winners of the awards will be announced on November 25.

For more information about the Sense Awards you can visit sense.org.uk/sense-awards/.