Posted on: Thursday 14 August 2025
A group of new fathers have turned their shared experience on a parenting programme into a lasting support network — and they’re urging other dads to get involved.
Jon Desmond, from Cwmbran, and Jordan Harris, from Pontypool, met on the council’s For Dads, By Dads programme - an initiative designed to support new and expecting fathers through the challenges of parenthood.
Since completing the programme in 2024, they have built a support network with other dads, regularly meeting for park walks - pushchairs in tow - to share experiences and offer advice about the ups and downs of fatherhood.
Jon, 36, who found the programme a lifeline during a difficult journey to become a dad, said: “I cannot advocate enough for For Dads, By Dads. We’d experienced multiple losses before our son Alfie arrived, and the support I found in the group was incredible — not just the advice, but the banter and camaraderie too.”
With weekly themes, dads can take part in sessions covering a range of topics, including mental health, nutrition, addiction and paediatric first aid, and also access a range of local services.
Participants also enjoy exclusive access to live sporting events, including matches at Rodney Parade—home of Newport County AFC and the Dragons RFC, and a month’s free gym membership.
Jon added: “It’s not just about parenting tips, it’s about preparing mentally for the change and knowing you’re not alone. We still message each other at 4am when the babies are up — and someone always replies.”
Jordan, 32, who joined the programme when his partner was 12 weeks pregnant, said: “To look back now, after having my 5-month-old little boy Denver, is incredible. The experience truly was invaluable to me.
“I met people from all walks of life, all wanting to be the best dads they can be. We’ve kept in touch, gone for walks, and leaned on each other when things got tough.”
Cllr Richard Clark, Executive Member for Children, Families and Education, said:
“This programme is a powerful example of how we’re delivering on our County Plan wellbeing objectives by helping people connect socially, tackle inequality, and support families to thrive.”
“By empowering dads with the tools, confidence and community they need, we’re helping to build stronger families and a more resilient Torfaen.”
The free For Dads, By Dads programme continues to run across Torfaen, with the next one taking place from 7pm on Thursday 4 September, at Pontypool Active Living Centre.
This latest programme will see dads receive more tailored support from Aneurin Bevan University Health Board and also take part in sessions around managing conflict and building healthy relationships.
For more information or to sign up, visit the Torfaen Council website: