Frequently asked questions

How can I campaign for fathers?

Organize Events: Plan events or workshops to educate the community about fathers' mental health, inviting your MP to speak or participate.

Can I get in touch with my Member of Parliament?

Yes. Please use the template below and add your MP and your name. 

How can I find out who is my MP

Press the link below and add your postcode in the search box. 

Can you help me?

Yes. But Fathers Reaching Out is a voluntary lobby group and may take time to respond.

Can I set up my own charity? or Group?

Yes. But in mental health settings, safeguarding ensures that participants feel safe and supported, which is essential for effective therapeutic interventions and group cohesion.

Information
  • Confidentiality Policies: Establish clear confidentiality policies that outline how personal information will be handled and protected. This helps build trust among participants.
  • Informed Consent: Ensure that individuals understand their rights regarding privacy and confidentiality before they join any group or sessions. Obtain informed consent for sharing any personal information.
  • Limitations of Confidentiality: It is also important to inform participants about the limits of confidentiality, such as instances where there may be a risk of harm to themselves or others.
  • Creating a Safe Space: Facilitate a welcoming and inclusive environment where participants feel comfortable sharing their experiences and feelings without fear of judgment or breach of confidentiality.
  • Clear Guidelines: Establish group rules around respectful communication and confidentiality. Encourage participants to respect each other’s privacy.

Training can be provided by Fathers Mental Health UK

Template for Sending Campaigns

Dear [Member of Parliament's Name],

I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to you as a concerned citizen and advocate for mental health, specifically regarding the importance of supporting fathers during the perinatal period.

As you may be aware, mental health challenges can significantly affect fathers during this crucial time, with studies indicating that increased anxiety and depression among new fathers can have profound effects not only on their wellbeing but also on the wellbeing of their partners and children.

Tragically, the suicide rates among men, especially in the perinatal phase, are alarmingly high. According to [insert relevant statistics or studies], mental health issues frequently go unaddressed for fathers, leading to devastating outcomes.

Supporting fathers during this period is essential not just for their own mental health, but also for the overall health of the family unit and the healthy development of children. Research consistently shows that engaged and mentally healthy fathers contribute positively to their children's emotional and social development, decrease the likelihood of behavioral issues, and foster healthier family dynamics.

I urge you to consider the following actions that could make a significant difference:

  1. Implement Routine Mental Health Screening: Support initiatives that integrate mental health screenings for fathers during the perinatal period, ensuring timely identification and treatment of mental health issues.

  2. Increase Awareness and Education: Advocate for public awareness campaigns that focus on the importance of paternal mental health, helping to destigmatize seeking support.

  3. Enhance Parental Leave Policies: Promote policies that allow fathers to take parental leave, thereby providing them with the opportunity to bond with their children and support their partners during the postpartum period.

  4. Increase Funding for Support Services: Advocate for increased funding for mental health services tailored for fathers, ensuring they have access to the resources they need.

By prioritizing the mental health of fathers, we can create a ripple effect that benefits families and communities as a whole. I kindly ask for your support in raising awareness and advocating for necessary policy changes to improve the mental health landscape for fathers during this critical period.

Thank you for your attention to this important issue. I look forward to seeing positive changes that support not only fathers but also strengthen families throughout our community.

Warm regards,

[Your Name]
[Your Address or Contact Information]
[Optional: Your Organization or Affiliation]
[Date]

Find your MP 

Find your MP - MPs and Lords - UK Parliament

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