WITH experience as a single and separated parent, former Leeton resident Peter Makeham wants other dads out there to know they too have rights.
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Mr Makeham is the founder of the group Dads Care 4 Kids, which is a support network for separated fathers that have no visits or minimal visits with their children.
It is also for single dads who are raising their children on their own.
“Not being able to see their children after separation not only affects the dads, but it affects the children as well,” Mr Makeham said.
“Dads Care 4 Kids gives them someone to talk to who understands what they are going through and offers them advice in a tough situation.”
The group will be holding a special event in Leeton on June 24 to do just that. The barbecue will encourage men in those situations to get together, chat and be pointed in the right direction if they need help or assistance.
“If we have someone there that needs to see a solicitor we can point them in the right direction … we do all sorts of things,” Mr Makeham said.
“Sometimes all they need is to talk to someone. It can be difficult though because some do find it hard to seek help or talk about things. It’s that old stigma that men need to ‘toughen up’.”
Mr Makeham has 14 years experience being a single father and he wants to use this as a way to help others.
“The reason we are holding the barbecue (in Leeton) is so we can expand the group into other towns ... there is a huge need for a dads support group in Leeton. “It’s an extremely important issue.”
The event in Leeton will be run with the help of the Salvation Army. Mr Makeham was hoping to have a solicitor on hand to offer advice on the day. “Hopefully we have a few people turn out … it’s important people in these situations do seek help,” Mr Makeham said.
The event will be held on June 24 at the Leeton Salvation Army headquarters in Maple Street. For more information contact Mr Makeham on 0408 241 673 or email dadscare4kids@gmail.com.