NEW fathers and their families across West Somerset and Exmoor are to benefit from essential one-to-one support, after a £4,000 charity grant by Somerset Freemasons.

The Freemasons have given the money to Home-Start West Somerset’s Dad Matters project, based in Minehead, which supports new fathers navigating the challenges of parenthood.

The grant will help Dad Matters to provide personalised mentorship and support, enabling new fathers to develop the confidence and skills necessary for successful parenting.

Dad Matters co-ordinator for West Somerset Ben Arrigoni said: “We are deeply grateful to the Somerset Freemasons for their generous grant.

Home-Start West Somerset manager Clare Pound with some of the Quantock (Watchet) and Exmoor (Minehead) Freemasons Lodges who are supporting the Dad Matters project. PHOTO: Chris Moore.
Home-Start West Somerset manager Clare Pound with some of the Quantock (Watchet) and Exmoor (Minehead) Freemasons Lodges who are supporting the Dad Matters project. PHOTO: Chris Moore. ( )

“This support will make a profound difference in the lives of the dads we work with.

“At Dad Matters, we take pride in improving the confidence and skills of new fathers, helping them to enhance their family lives.

“This grant will allow us to reach more fathers in need of assistance, providing them with the tools and support they need to thrive in their parenting roles.”

Dad Matters is a parent/infant mental health (PIMHs) project focusing on supporting fathers through various challenges associated with new parenthood.

The project’s comprehensive approach includes:

  • One-to-one mentorship, matching dads with mentors who provide personalised guidance and support
  • Group support, facilitating ‘dad chat’ groups within antenatal classes and other targeted support groups
  • Outreach and education, engaging dads at events and through social media to distribute information and resources
  • Advocacy and training, delivering training to professionals and advocating for the importance of fatherhood at conferences and events

Somerset Freemasons spokesman Graham Puddy said: “I am very pleased we have been able to help Dad Matters with their valuable programme for local dads who need this crucial support.

“Being able to take advantage of the advice and support available gives them a far greater chance of making a better life for themselves and their family.”

Mr Puddy said the Freemasons’ support underscored the critical role community and charitable organisations played in fostering strong family units.

More information about Dad Matters and the support which it provides can be found online and more about the Somerset Freemasons is available on its website.