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Written by Hannah Moore – Dads and Non-Birthing Partner Co-Ordinator at Connected Perinatal Support CIC
Who are Connected?
We are a not-for-profit, Derby-based community organisation providing peer support throughout pregnancy and early parenthood. At the heart of Connected are our amazing volunteers who commit so much time to providing support for local families, ensuring nobody has to face the perinatal period alone. We recognise that every pregnancy, labour, birth and early parenthood experience is different and we offer a range of tailored and group support to suit every family.
What is Dads’ Space?
Dads’ Space is an opportunity for dads to meet other dads in a relaxed environment, as well as to access perinatal peer support from our warm and welcoming volunteers. Whether it’s a good day, or a tougher day, our kettle is on. Sessions are FREE and there is no need to book: simply turn up!
Why Dads’ Space?
We recognise the important role that fathers play in their new baby’s life, and similarly the significance of fathers having a space where they can explore their experiences and feelings of parenthood, confidently, in a safe and supportive environment.
With at least 1 in 10 new fathers reporting experiencing mental health difficulties within the perinatal period, and a further 68% of dads reporting an increase in symptoms of depression during the first five years of their child’s life, it is vital that new and expectant dads are offered support through such a significant time of change.
What Dads Say
“For me, Dads Space gives me humour, deals with issues and puts my problems into perspective as a dad and as an individual, giving me more stability in my everyday life.”
“Theres a group of people there, willing to listen and willing to offer their advice, and offer their life experience and you even get to come and play football for an hour if you want to.”
“It’s very important dads voice how they’re feeling, otherwise they can get forgotten about.”
“Since we had our second, it’s been very tough… socials like this have been very beneficial.”
“I’d recommend coming to Dads’ Space because everyone has been so welcoming. Everyone wants to hear about your stress or what you’re struggling with, and they can help.”
Where and When?
Dads’ Space: Thu 10am – 12pm at Derwent Family Hub, Monmouth Street, DE21 6BD
A relaxed space for a brew and to meet other dads, whilst the little ones play, in a supportive environment. Suitable for expectant dads, new dads, and dads with children under 5.
Football and Social: Thu 7pm – 9pm at Leisure United Derby Racecourse Hub, Racecourse Playing Fields, St Marks Road, DE21 6AJ
Free, friendly football sessions for new and expectant dads. Expect an hour’s football on the pitch and an hour of post-football social. Refreshments are provided, with an opportunity to unwind and meet other dads. Access the football, social or both. Babies in arms are welcome to join dad for the social.
Further Signposting
Connected – www.connectedperinatalsupport.org/dads-space
DadPad – www.thedadpad.co.uk/app
DadsMatter – www.dadsmatter.org.uk
DadsUnlimited – www.dadsunltd.org.uk
DigiDad – www.digidad.uk
HowAreYouDad – www.howareyoudad.org
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