How it started…
Established in 1974, the organization emerged during a time when societal attitudes toward parental roles were undergoing significant shifts, and family structures were evolving.
The early 1970s witnessed a cultural transformation, marked by changing gender roles and expectations. As more women entered the workforce and societal norms evolved, the dynamics of family life also experienced a shift. Against this backdrop, Families Need Fathers was founded by Alick Elithorn, a passionate advocate for fathers’ rights, who recognized the need for an organization dedicated to supporting non-residential parents, predominantly fathers, during times of family breakdown.
What Our Service Users Say
” What an amazing organisation, offering help, support and advice. A really informative and pioneering charity. Thank you! ”
“ Excellent charity, and volunteers that gives hope and support with practical information, not only to fathers but grandparents / extended family too. A lifeline in devastating situations where ultimately the children are the focus. If contact with your child or grandchild is broken, this is the organization for all relevant information, support and understanding. ”
” I don’t know how I would have coped without the Shared Parenting knowledge and empowerment from the peer support of Both Parents Matter.”
” Both Parents Matter taught me about the realities of the UK Family Court system at a time when I was very vulnerable and in need of guidance. Their ‘Surviving Separation’ course is excellent. ”
” The only charity to support any parent or grandparent to regain contact with their child or children, I regularly attend the Manchester group once a month to provide support. ”
” Without this group I would have been lost. I am the grandmother of a son who had his children taken away by the mother and false allegations submitted to ensure no contact. It has been heart breaking but reading the stories, being part of a community and having access to meetings gives information, advice and the hope and knowledge that it can change. I will keep supporting my son and grandchildren so they are together in the future. ”
” An inclusive organisation that supports mothers, fathers, and ultimately children. I have personally found their support to be invaluable and truly believe it has saved my life and helped me become a stronger, resilient, and positive human being, father, and husband. They have educated and coached with my own personal development, positive co-parenting, positive parenting, and Family Court and the legal/court process. In that order. The peer-to-peer support is unmatched…I’ve never experienced a more active and supportive group of individuals brought together by a single goal – Happy Families! ”
120,265
Children Helped
32,760
Service Users each year
33
Support meetings each month
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Helpline:0300 0300 363
Office:0300 0300 110
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Head Office
Both Parents Matter
27 Old Gloucester Street
Holborn
London WC1N 3AX
"Achievement of the quality mark by Both Parents Matter demonstrates to funders and other stakeholders their commitment to excellence." Ian McLintock, Founder, Charity Excellence Framework