More Support Needed for Fathers

For immediate release 15/6/2017

Why does Mother’s Day always get more attention than Father’s Day? Popular narrative on a mother’s position still casts her as the primary carer, yet all the evidence suggests that the role of fathers is vital, undervalued and in need of far more recognition and support, especially in separated families.

Children born today have a 50% chance of their parents separating before they reach 16 years of age. The consequences are far more pernicious that most people realise. Family separation affects around 180,000 children every year. 90% of these children will end up living with only one parent, almost always mum. According the Office of National Statistics (ONS) 3.8 million children have no paternal involvement at all.  This is hardly surprising given that 40% lose contact with their fathers within three years of separation and only 15% are still in contact with their fathers by the age of 15.

The evidence of poor outcomes for children growing up without paternal involvement is overwhelming. The risks to mental health, school, future relationships and work are doubled for children not enjoying some kind of responsibly shared care by their parents whether together or apart. These difficulties are also linked to higher rates of crime, teenage pregnancy and other disadvantages.

Families Need Fathers are asked by thousands of parents a year, mostly dads, for support with maintaining their relationships with their children after separation.

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