Posted on: Thursday 11 August 2022
New and expectant fathers in Torfaen can sign up to a new programme which aims to support dads on their new journey of parenthood.
The 10-week For Dads, By Dads programme is run by Torfaen Sports Development and covers a range of topics such as child first aid, health & wellbeing, nutrition and parenting.
Sessions include guest speakers from a range of organisations, with some including Tidy Butt – whose mission is to change stigma around mental health, Recoveries 4all – who educate people on gambling and gaming, and Fat Daddy Fitness – a nutrition and exercise life coaching service.
There are also sessions run by Gwent Psychology, Torfaen Flying Start and Families First.
Earlier this year, nine local dads took part in the For Dads, By Dads pilot and their feedback has helped shape the next programme, which starts next month.
Nicholas, from Pontypool, said: “It was great getting to meet other dads who are in different circumstances to me but in some way going through the same thing.
“It’s a place where you could say what you needed, and you wouldn’t get judged. That was the biggest part for me, that’s what made it feel like a good environment to be in - no judgment from anyone.
“I learnt a lot about nutrition and support that’s out there for dads. I now have energy to play with my child after a hard day’s work. I am now confident I can be the dad I want to be.”
Jacob Guy, Sports Development Officer at Torfaen Council, said: “The pilot project gave us all the evidence we needed to support dads on the next programme and has enabled us to trial different workshops and programmes this time around.
I am excited to work with the new group dads this September and run the programme at full capacity now that Covid-19 restrictions have been lifted. We feel giving dads the tools to be the best dad they can be, will not only benefit them but also enable better relationships with their family moving forward.”
“We are also currently working with Torfaen Leisure Trust to put things in place for dads on the programme to receive a free passes to use at their centres.”
For Dads, By Dads starts on Thursday 8 September, 7pm until 9pm, at Pontypool Active Living Centre and will feature guest speakers Mark Williams, from Fathers Outreach – who provide support and information to help new dads, and Gareth Wall, Torfaen Council’s Early Years Family Support Officer.
You can sign up here or contact Jacob Guy on 07980682256 or email Jacob.guy@torfaen.gov.uk