Dad Matters

We aim to help dads have successful relationships with their families, and to support dads with anxiety, stress and mental health issues.

We hope to get dads engaged with services that have traditionally been targeted at mums, and to train & support volunteer dads to work with us.

We work directly with services that support Dads, families and especially babies to increase engagement and knowledge across the sector.

We want to make sure dads know how important they are, how to access support when they need it and why it’s essential for baby’s development.

Becoming a Home-Start/Dad Matters Volunteer is simple and rewarding.

We ask that our Dad Matters volunteers:

Are a dad or stepdad
Have a positive attitude to working with people of any gender, family status or sexual identity, or who are from any ethnic origin, culture or religion, or who may have a disability
Demonstrate a sensitive and supportive attitude towards others
Be non-judgemental.
Be clear about their role in confidentiality and when sharing is essential to the well-being of a child
Be committed and reliable
Have good communication skills including an ability to listen and ask questions
Understand the need for supporting dads
Have a warm and open personality
Have time and enthusiasm for supporting dads
Be able to work as part of a team and on your own
Be prepared to keep simple records as requested by the scheme
Understand the need for keeping records confidential and secure
Be prepared to engage in regular support and training sessions as appropriate
Be able to approach dads in relevant environments to promote Dad Matters, ask questions and give out information. (Outreach)
To facilitate Dad Chat groups in maternity and other settings. (Facilitation)
To monitor, moderate and contribute to online discussions and closed groups
To facilitate face to face events, for dads and babies.