DorPIP Dads
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How are you feeling?
Quite often this question is directed toward Mum, however at DorPIP we recognise that Dads can often feel invisible to services (and friends and family) when it is an equally significant time of change, challenge, transition and learning for you too.
Not only have you just been handed a brand-new little human, your baby, but you may also have had to witnessed your partner going through a difficult pregnancy or birth
Your baby may be going through a difficult time especially in the early weeks, or at times of rapid development change
Perhaps your partner is struggling adjusting to their new role, feeling isolated, like they have lost their identity, out of their depth
Perhaps you are too, how are you Dad?
All these factors will impact on you, yet all too often dads feel they can't reach out for help.
There's a myth that you must be 'strong', despite possibly experiencing your own feelings of anxiety, feeling out of control and other things too.
We appreciate that finding your feet as a new or expectant parent can be both an exciting and difficult time.
As much as you want to be there for your partner, it can be difficult juggling your needs, your partners, and this whole new person you helped bring into this world.
Dads and Partners can access any of our services free of charge
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Our infant massage sessions give dads the chance to connect with their baby in a calm, nurturing way. You’ll learn simple, hands-on techniques to soothe, comfort, and bond with your little one, while also discovering the benefits for both your baby’s development and your own confidence as a parent.
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DorPIP offers confidential, one-to-one sessions where dads can talk openly about the challenges, worries, and joys of parenthood. These sessions provide a safe space to explore your thoughts and feelings, build coping strategies, and strengthen your confidence in your role as a father.
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Little Pips is a friendly space for dads to connect with other parents, share experiences, and support each other through the ups and downs of early parenthood. It’s a relaxed, informal group where you can ask questions, swap tips, and build confidence in your role as a dad.
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We’re working hard to make this dads-only service the best it can be. It will be a safe, supportive space for fathers to connect, share experiences, and get practical guidance tailored to their needs. Full details will be available soon—stay tuned!
“The course helped me first hand to connect deeper with my baby and understand their cues and that I could be a hands on part of their early months as well.” - Grant
“As a new dad, it has given me support and confidence that I am doing ok with looking after our baby and also that I am not alone in the parenting process, so good to share experiences and emotions with other Dads.“- Pete
“Being able to relax and chat each week within a relaxing and friendly group has really helped me to not just begin to understand my baby’s needs and development, but also to understand my own feelings and be able to share them in a safe space.” - Nathan
Resources for Dads
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Andy’s Man Club – A safe space for men to talk about mental health through weekly meetings across the UK.
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Both Parent’s Matter – Support for separated parents, ensuring children maintain relationships with both parents.
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Dads Unlimited – Support tailored for single dads and those experiencing relationship breakdowns, including domestic abuse, financial agreements, and mental health.
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Directions for Men – Support groups and activities where men can connect, share, and receive guidance.
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When people talk about birth trauma, dads often get left out. But the truth is, it can hit dads hard. Watching your partner go through something traumatic, feeling completely helpless, not being listened to, or worrying about your baby’s safety, all of that stays with you.
Scott Mair of Fatherhood Solutions runs bi-monthly Zoom sessions on behalf of the Birth Trauma Association to give dads a space to talk about what they’ve been through. No pressure, no judgement, just real conversations, led by people who understand.
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ICON – Babies Cry, You Can Cope shares real stories from dads about coping with the challenges of parenthood, helping raise awareness and support for safe, calm caregiving.
After benefiting from our services families often feel like they want to give back. If this is you, thank you, we appreciate your support.
Make a Donation
If you're able, consider making a donation to our Local Giving Page. Donations help us run our services.
Write a Google Review: Your review of your experience with DorPIP could encourage others to reach out for support, and benefit from our services as well.
Volunteering: Volunteer a little of your time to help with small tasks or projects. For instance, you could help spread the word about the DorPIP’s services on social media.
Spread the Word: Simply telling your friends, family, and colleagues about DorPIP the organization and the positive impact it has had on your life can go a long way.