A peer group for new dads in Sheffield has started up after the council noticed a gap in the market for dads struggling with their mental health.
Steel City Dads, which began in February, holds events for expecting dads or dads with children under 2, who may be struggling with their mental health.
Niall Bacon is the peer support facilitator at Steel City Dads and also has his own experience of paternal struggle.
He said: “I started to feel really guilty if I did anything other than help out with childcare. I stayed at home, didn’t see anyone and became quite isolated. I neglected my own health and well being so didn’t exercise and go for runs, didn’t play as much football.
“You get loads of dads teamed up with their babies, giving them the space to bond. It’s empowering for us dads to have that opportunity to be the sole parent, especially in a space supported by lots of other dads.”
The group was set up after feedback to the council highlighted a gap in support for new and young dads in Sheffield, which opened up money for Steel City Dads to start.
“In other cities, there already are existing dad groups that have been going for years. So there was a huge gap in Sheffield for this support. That’s why the council sort of recognised that and recognised the impact it could have.”
Some of the events held so far include walk and talks, baby play groups and gym sessions, all with a focus for improving and preserving mental health.
“It’s quite rare for dads to have a space where they’re invited to come with their babies without mum. And that’s quite empowering.”
The group is centred around mental health support for dads that have been referred to the group from GPs and health visitors, but the group is open to all.
Niall said: “It’s for all dads, with an understanding that by being part of a community and attending activities, you’re preserving good mental health.”
The group have paired with Sheffield Wednesday community group to run their free wellbeing gym programme, which starts this Saturday, 4th May.
Niall believes the gym programme is important as it’s something that helped him with his own mental health.
“It’s acknowledging that oftentimes dads are sacrificing their health and well being and doing the things that keep them feeling well.”
Niall hopes the group can allow dads to “Get tips, get advice, have a space to talk about the struggles and the triumphs of adapting to being a parent.”