The founder of mental health support group Focus 4-1 has been nominated for a Community Award and Volunter Award for her work in battling mental illnesses.

Vanessa Anenden, of Raynes Park, founded Focus 4-1 in April 2013 after struggling to find help when she battled post-traumatic stress disorder.

She had to deal with a wait of four months before receiving help.

When she was finally helped, Ms Anenden said that she then received poor service.

At Focus 4-1, which has grown to 150 members since founding, she runs a support group Tuesdays and Thursdays which serves to help those battling mental illnesses overcome their struggles.

It also co-ordinates its work with a number of other organisations

Even though she still attends treatment for her mental health illness, Ms Anenden dedicates her whole week to the organisation.

Ms Anenden, 42, said: “It is meant to be two days, but I actually spend seven days a week running everything. I’m trying to manage it and keep going to treatment.”

She also co-manages the organisation’s Facebook page, and shares photos and quotes meant to help those battling mental health illnesses keep a positive outlook on life daily.

She said she was humbled to receive the nomination.

She said: “I was shocked and surprised when I heard… it’s nice to be acknowledged.”

Those interested in volunteering for or donating to Focus 4-1 should phone the organisation on 07870 898811.

Nominate someone by voting online at www.wimbledonguardian.co.uk/mca or fill out a form in the Wimbledon Guardian newspaper. Nominations close on Friday, August 12.