Caring Dads
Parenting is one of the most important and challenging roles a man can take on. But sometimes, difficult life experiences, conflict, or harmful patterns of behaviour can damage relationships with children and their mothers.
Caring Dads
At
C4F (Centre for Families), we believe that change is possible and that fathers can take positive steps to become safer, more responsible, and more nurturing parents.
Our
Caring Dads Programme is a
17-week course designed to help fathers build healthier relationships with their children and partners or ex-partners while taking responsibilty for their children's safety and wellbeing.
What to Expect from the Programme
Caring Dads is a
cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT)-based parenting course delivered over
17 weeks.
Trained facilitators— with professional backgrounds in child development or offender management.
Small Groups — only 16 fathers at a time creating a focused group where participants can learn, reflect, and share experiences in a safe, respectful space.
Be supported — but also challenged to take responsibility and make lasting changes
The aim is not to shame or judge, but to
encourage growth, accountability, and safer parenting. Fathers are helped to understand how to support their child’s wellbeing and rebuild trust over time.
Why the Caring Dads Programme Helps
Children need fathers who keep them safe, put their needs first, and model healthy relationships. The programme helps you to:
Take responsibility for their actions and their impact on their children and partners.
Develop safer, healthier parenting behaviours.
Learn how to prioritise their child’s safety and emotional needs.
Rebuild relationships on a foundation of respect, care, and accountability.
By combining support with structured change, the programme gives fathers the tools to become better parents and create more positive family dynamics.
How Sessions Work
- When: Tuesday evenings at 7:00 pm
- Where: Online via Microsoft Teams
- Who Runs It: The group is run by fathers, for fathers — people who understand the challenges and rewards of parenting.
The group is friendly, informal, and conversation-led. There’s no pressure to speak if you don’t feel ready — you can simply listen at first, or share when you feel comfortable.

Every session is a safe and supportive space to talk about whatever is affecting you as a dad — from everyday parenting challenges to more complex family situations.
Who the Programme is For
The Caring Dads Programme is specifically designed for fathers who:
- Are currently in contact with their children or expect to be in contact soon.
- Have been involved in family conflict or behaviours that may have harmed their children or exposed them to harm.
- Want to take responsibility for their actions and work towards safer, more positive relationships.
Participation may be encouraged by professionals such as social workers, CAFCASS officers, or the courts.
Fathers may also choose to
join voluntarily if they want to change their approach to parenting and build stronger, safer relationships.
How to Join the Programme
As with other services, your place on the programme can be set up through:
- Local authorities or social workers
- CAFCASS and the courts
- Solicitors
- Self-referral from parents
Once agreed, our team will provide guidance on how sessions will run, times and dates, and how to prepare to get the most from the experience.
A Safe Space for Change
At C4F, we provide a safe, respectful environment where fathers can learn, grow, and take meaningful steps towards becoming better parents.
Change can be challenging, but it is possible — and it starts with taking responsibility.
The Caring Dads Programme gives fathers the knowledge, tools, and support they need to parent more positively and protect their children’s safety and wellbeing.
