SaveTheChildren

What started as one new father's search for support has grown into a thriving community helping dads and children across Belfast.

Founded in 2022 by first-time dad Col Bignell, Dadbods NI brings fathers and their children together every Sunday for a "Dadventure" a walk, a chat, and quality time spent outdoors. The group now welcomes up to 40 dads and their children each week, with more than 100 members connected through its WhatsApp community.

In this video, the founder, Col shares how the group is helping children build friendships, develop social skills, improve their mental and physical wellbeing, and become more connected. Fathers also speak about the positive impact the group has had on their parenting, mental health, confidence, and family life.

One of the most powerful stories within Dadbods NI is that of Alan and his son Matthew, who was diagnosed with autism after a three-year wait for assessment. Alan speaks about the challenges many parents of children with additional needs face, including judgement and misunderstanding from others. Through Dadbods, Matthew has found a welcoming environment where he can be himself, build confidence, and gradually interact more with other children, while Alan has found understanding, support, and friendship from other fathers. Their story highlights the importance of inclusive communities where every child is accepted and every parent feels supported.

Following the award of a Save the Children innovation grant, Dadbods NI is expanding its reach through the Connected Dads programme, supporting more fathers and families, particularly in harder-to-reach and disadvantaged communities in East Belfast.

Filmed at Belfast's Botanical Gardens during one of the group's weekly "Dadventures".

#DadbodsNI #BelfastDads #Fatherhood #Parenting #MentalHealth #Community #SaveTheChildren #NorthernIreland #FamilyLife #Dadventure