When Wayne was referred to the Caring Dads programme, he was at crisis point. Struggling with drug and alcohol addiction, grieving the recent loss of his mother and facing the repercussions of domestic violence within the home. His two young children were placed in temporary foster care. Wayne and the children’s mother, also struggling with addiction, were able to maintain contact with their children through a contact centre. 

Wayne approached the first session feeling “anxious, embarrassed and ashamed”. “But I’d do anything for my kids,” he said. “It was a priority.”  A private person, the idea of sharing within a group felt daunting, but over time things began to change. 

“Everyone was in the same boat” 

As the weeks progressed, Wayne began to relax. “I realised I wasn’t the only one who had been through certain things. I opened up more.” He attended all 17 sessions, finding comfort and connection with others who understood his journey. “It gave me a reason to get out of the house and to think about my future.” 

After completing Caring Dads, Wayne went on to volunteer with a local drug and alcohol support service, where he found purpose in helping others. “I loved being out in the community, it felt good to support people I could relate to.”  

Wayne is now in full-time employment and recently achieved full custody of his children. They live together in a two-bedroom flat and are rebuilding their family life day by day. 

Wayne says his relationship with his children, and their mother, has dramatically improved. “We co-parent 10 times better now. The kids have noticed the difference, especially my eldest, who’s more affectionate with me now.” 

“I understand now where I was wrong. I’m proud I pushed myself and went out of my comfort zone. My life wasn’t normal before; I was lying to myself.” 

Wayne shared the type of father he wants to be is: “A strong guide. Someone who shows them what’s right and wrong and makes sure they don’t follow in my footsteps.” 

“Wayne is a perfect example of why we run this programme. His journey shows what is possible when you embrace the process and apply what you learn through Caring Dads to your life”

 

 

Bez, Young Parent Practitioner