Supporting Fathers with Men Matter Scotland

Shared Parenting Scotland works with Men Matter Scotland in Drumchapel to support fathers navigating separation, family breakdown and child contact difficulties. 

We’ve partnered with Men Matter Scotland to provide bespoke advice, clarity and practical direction as part of Men Matter’s broader support package.

Our casework shows that family separation is a significant public health challenge. We see the impact that losing meaningful connection with children and grandchildren can have on identity, purpose, relationships and wellbeing. For some fathers, this loss of connection can present significant mental health challenges, including suicidal ideation. 

We recognise the importance of Men Matter’s work in mental health support and suicide prevention. It’s staff, volunteers and broader support network provide a vital space for men to connect and access support. 

Our own work complements this by helping fathers understand the systems they’re navigating, to identify what their options are, and, where necessary, to create accountability for the next steps.

Our partnership with Men Matter Scotland has resulted in stronger referral pathways between the two organisations, meaning fathers can get access to the right support at the right time. 

Our Partnership Development and Outreach Manager, Alastair Williamson (pictured, centre), has been instrumental to its continued development. His knowledge and experience have been invaluable, particularly in helping fathers navigate the systems surrounding separation.

Our daily casework makes clear the connections between family separation, father-child relationships, men’s wellbeing, and the need for robust public policy that tackles the root cause of these issues and supports fathers and families to find a positive way forward.