A SUPPORT group for adults with learning difficulties is setting up a scheme to make people feel safer because many are still fearful in the wake of Jim Attfield’s murder.

Mr Attfield, 33, of East Bay, Colchester, had learning disabilities after he suffered a brain injury when he was hit by a car.

He was stabbed to death on a path near Lower Castle Park, Colchester, last year. His killer has not been found.

Michael Jones, the operations director of the social enterprise group Bright Lives, said many vulnerable adults were already concerned about going out, and their fears were heightened following the killing.

Bright Lives, based at the Community Hall at Abbotts, in Ladbrook Drive, Colchester, is setting up a friendship group.

Mr Jones, said: “Most of the people with learning difficulties who come here knew James or knew of him.

“It has had a real effect on our community.

“Anyone who is a minority, such as someone with learning difficulties, will be singled out.

“They often have low selfesteem and confidence and this makes the situation worse.

“We want to set up a friendship group for adults with learning difficulties where they can meet in a secure environment and be protected.

“They could socialise without feeling intimidated.”

Mr Jones said the group would teach life skills and explain about relationships.

He said: “I would like to use a questionnaire to ask people who maybe feel unable to go out and looking for friendships to contact us, so we can involve them in this work and better meet their needs and aspirations.”

Anyone wanting to know more can email Mr Jones at michael@brightlives.org.uk