Man punched in bar launches campaign in schools

A campaign to reduce violence will be rolled out in schools across Hull.

Paul Spence, from Hull, founded the charity Paul For Brain Recovery after an unprovoked attack in a bar left him with a brain haemorrhage.

The 45-year-old is now planning to host One Punch Ruins Lives talks to secondary school pupils to raise awareness and combat violence.

Mr Spence said: "This will really help young people gain an understanding of the impact of mindless acts of violence and the importance of emotional intelligence."

Mr Spence was in a bar on Easter Sunday in 2012 when he was punched and knocked unconscious.

He suffered a frontal lobe brain haemorrhage and was told he was "lucky to be alive" by consultants.

Years of neuro rehabilitation followed, Mr Spence lost his job as an electrical engineer, his relationship fell apart and he spiralled into depression.

However, he eventually rebuilt his life and relationship, became a father, and founded a charity to raise awareness about the impact of violence.

Teaming up with Hull City Council, he will deliver talks to pupils in Year 7 to Year 10 and give away 10 educational booklets to every primary school in the city.

Councillor Linda Tock, portfolio holder for children's services, said: "We want all young people in Hull to feel safe, respected and have a positive future ahead of them.

"I hope by hearing from Paul, they will feel inspired by his story and learn practical skills in reducing conflict and building emotional resilience."

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