Fathers Channel to be launched with special event

A new group for fathers, caregivers and their supporters working at the University is being launched by the Parent and Family Network.

The Fathers Channel will allow fathers to make new connections and share experiences via Microsoft Teams. The term ‘fathers’ is being used to encompass caregivers in all manner of roles, including but not limited to biological fathers, non-biological fathers, step-fathers and adult caregivers.

This space for fathers has been created by husband and wife academic duo, Dr Daniel Lamport and Dr Katie Barfoot, who recognised that much of the engaged network were mothers.

Join the Fathers Channel by joining the Parent and Family Network on Teams, and selecting it from the list on left hand side.

Daniel said: “Specific support and space to come into contact with other fathers within the University, and potentially elsewhere in life, may be minimal, even though fatherhood is a transformative period of change, growth and challenge for individuals’ lives, work, families and relationships, where a support network may be needed. We wanted to change this.

“We have a vision to create a space, led by you, to best support you through fatherhood. That may look like a monthly coffee or beer social, specific workshops or a space to vent online. We are very dedicated to listen to what you want and try to make that happen. We hope to involve you to create upcoming events!”

Launch event

A launch event will be held on Wednesday 8 November in Palmer 102, from 13:00-14:30.

It is open to all University colleagues and postgraduates, plus supporters such as partners, family or friends. Refreshments will be provided.

In order to gauge numbers for refreshments/catering, colleagues are asked to register for the event.

The event will feature two speakers:

Chris Reed

Chris is a dedicated father to three children: Ryan (27), Jessica (17), and Luke (15).

Chris has experienced many joys and challenges of marriage and parenthood, having pursued an MBA while balancing the responsibilities of raising a one-year-old, and experiencing redundancy after the 2008 recession which brought new demands.

He will speak around his experiences around early parenthood, coping with divorce and life as a blended family.

You can contact Chris on chrismarkreed92@gmail.com

Marvyn Bramble

Marvyn is a family court magistrate (Justice of the Peace) and freelance associate trainer with Daddy CPR. Daddy CPR is an organisation committed to promoting positive father involvement in families.

Marvyn coaches professionals to better connect with fathers as part of their practice. His passion stems from over half a decade volunteering in family court assisting mothers and fathers to better co-parent after separation or divorce.

His awareness of community issues has been further developed through his day job as an environmental health officer dealing with complaints of poor housing and enforcing legal compliance.

You can contact Marvyn at the following email address: marvyn.bramble@hotmail.com