When Sam Wainwright, 36, was referred to Dad Matters Bradford, he was carrying more than most people could imagine. Sam’s story is a powerful reminder that fathers experience grief too, and that reaching out for support can make a life-changing difference.
Sam’s Story
In August 2025, after our third pregnancy loss, I was referred to Dad Matters Bradford through the Early Pregnancy Bereavement Team at Airedale Hospital. At the time, I was facing a series of losses. Alongside the heartbreak of repeated pregnancy loss, my mum had died from cancer, and I had lost my job – all within the space of just two months.
Initially when the early pregnancy bereavement team told me there was additional support available, I was reluctant to engage as I didn’t feel ready to talk about everything my wife and I had been through. However, after our second loss, it was very clear it had a huge effect on me, I had struggled to process it, and I knew I needed support to help me move forwards.
That support came in the shape of Dad Matters Bradford coordinator Louise.
Louise was a brilliant support; she is easy to talk to, a great listener and most importantly, a good laugh! Knowing that I had someone to talk to “outside” of my immediate support network also stopped me feeling like I was putting too much pressure on my friends and family by overloading them with my own issues.
Louise also connected me with local peer support groups and activities, helping me access a wider network of support during one of the most difficult periods of my life.
The support from Louise and Dad matters made an immense difference, it’s clear to me that, at the start of the process, I was depressed, burnt out and probably heading for a breakdown as a result of the events mentioned above.
I felt like I didn’t have the mental strength to support my wife, who was suffering from severe Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and I was completely overwhelmed, but having someone to talk to, who understood what we were going through was a huge comfort.
I’m now able to have frank, open conversations with my wife about our losses, whereas previously, I couldn’t even talk about it and would actively close down any conversations about it, which was upsetting for her, but I just couldn’t cope with it and wanted to bury it.
As a result of the support I’ve received, I’ve gained perspective, reflected on everything I’ve been through, which has helped me be better and support my wife, but also become more resilient and begin moving forwards with my life again.
About Dad Matters Bradford
Thanks to the Family Hubs and Start for Life programme, we are able to support Dads and male carers directly through Dad Matters Bradford. Mohammed Khan and Louise Gill are our Dad Matters Coordinators.
The Dad Matters coordinators at Home-Start Bradford District supports expectant Dads, Dads and male carers to have the best possible relationship with their children. They will work closely with other professionals within the Bradford District to collectively foster better support for Dads in their parenting journey.
Find out more at dadmattersbradford.org.uk.
