Dads Jack Andrews and Nathan Wood have become friends and gym buddies, thanks to an initiative that supports new fathers.
More than 100 expectant and new fathers have taken part in the For Dads By Dads programme which covers essential parenting skills, copy strategies and mental and emotional wellbeing.
As well as taking part in the 10-week sessions, participants also get a month’s free gym membership with Torfaen Leisure Trust and tickets to a Dragons RFC game.
It can also lead to long-term friendships, like Jack, 35, and Nathan, 25, who attended the same programme and now go to the gym together and keep in touch via WhatsApp.
Nathan, who has a 10-month-old daughter, said: “Meeting other dads who were going through the same things I was made a huge difference. It gave me confidence and boosted my mental health.”
Jack, who has a four-year-old son, added: “It’s the best thing you can do for yourself and your child, particularly if you’re new to it all. The WhatsApp group has been essential as it’s a great place to share ideas and know there’s always someone to turn to.”
For Dads, By Dads is run by Torfaen Council’s sports development and early years teams and the next programme started last night.
You can still join this program where the the group meet on Thursdays at 7pm at Pontypool Active Living Centre. To sign up – or to find out about future programmes – email [email protected].
Councillor Fiona Cross, executive member for communities, praised the programme: “The ‘For Dads By Dads’ initiative is a testament to the strength of community support. It’s wonderful to see the positive impact it’s having on families across Torfaen”.