Dad Matters Gloucestershire
Dad Matters Gloucestershire is a dedicated initiative under Home-Start Gloucestershire, committed to empowering fathers and dads-to-be across the county. We recognize that fatherhood can be a profound journey filled with joys, challenges, and moments of uncertainty—especially in the crucial first 1001 days of parenting. Our mission is to support dads in building strong, positive relationships with their families by promoting mental health awareness, fostering attachment and bonding, and connecting families to essential resources and services.
As a local arm of the national Dad Matters network, we host a variety of welcoming, informal events designed specifically for dads, including Stay and Play sessions where you can bond with your little ones, share experiences with fellow fathers, and access practical advice in a judgment-free space. We also offer workshops on topics like perinatal mental health, parenting skills, and navigating family life, often in partnership with local professionals and volunteers known as "Dad Champions"—trained fathers who bring lived experience to the table.
Whether you're a new dad feeling overwhelmed, a dad-to-be preparing for what's ahead, or someone seeking community support, our events provide a safe haven to connect, learn, and grow. Join us to celebrate the vital role dads play—because when dads thrive, families flourish.