Working with Fathers

‘Fathers that are valued create the best outcomes for children’ Lincolnshire CYPSP

What fathers do matters to children?

Both mother and father involvement are important for children, and one is not a substitute for the other.

Why do we need to support fathers?

Based on evidence from research we know that the involvement of fathers and other male carers has positive outcomes for a child’s socio-economic development and this has long lasting benefits for the child.

‘Dads involvement in their children’s education matters for educational, emotional and social development of boys and girls.' Goldman R (2005)

Lincolnshire recognises the importance of mothers and fathers to children. 

However, current evidence suggests that most child rearing services are directed towards women.  There is a need to address inappropriate practice and attitudes to redress the balance.

Our aim is to increase children’s well being through increased involvement of family men.

Involving family men is also a gender equality issue.  Services must be welcoming to men and meet men’s needs and there should be gender balance in the workplace.

Fathers are part of families. Evidence suggests that the most successful interventions place an emphasis on parents’ shared interest in their children.  Mothers and fathers need to be supported to understand and support the importance of each of them to their children.

You can assess how father-friendly your workplace is by using the Father Friendly Audit.

Find out more about examples of good practice of working with fathers that have taken place in Lincolnshire, in a Case study for DCSF.

Father’s Plus is a charity which offers training, resources, support and advice to organisations and agencies who wish to engage with fathers and male carers. For more details please visit their website, the link is below.

There are 23 Fathers' groups now meeting throughout Lincolnshire, details in the PDF below.