Dad of two, Alex, aged 41, was struggling to cope with his two young sons and felt like he was on the ‘outside of his life looking in’. He hasn’t looked back after being referred to Dad Matters Bradford.
Alex’s Story
I found out about Dad Matters Bradford through other support services when things had got pretty rough for me. I was struggling a lot and someone mentioned that Dad Matters might be able to help me – I’m so glad they did!
Mohammed, the Dad Matters Bradford coordinator, was brilliant. He always found a way to help – even if he couldn’t fix something directly – he still made things feel a little lighter. Whether it was just checking in or getting me involved in playing at the park with my boys, he made sure that I didn’t feel that I was on my own.
Having this support has given me my confidence back as a dad. Before I felt like I was on the outside looking in, but now I know just being there for my boys, even in small ways, matters so much. It’s helped me to reconnect with my sons and with myself too.
Other dads that are struggling should not hesitate to reach out to Dad Matters Bradford. They may feel a bit awkward at first, but it’s not about being judged, it’s about having someone to talk to who actually gets it. It’s a lifeline when you need it most.
Without Dad Matters Bradford and Mohammed, I don’t know where I would be now. The work that they do is so important and more dads need to know about it. Having someone like Mohammed there gave me hope when I didn’t have much – that kind of support sticks with you for a lifetime – I will always be grateful.
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.
