Giles Watling, MP for Clacton, supports the Tendring based organisation ‘Lads Need Dads’, which was set up to equip, engage and inspire young boys with absent fathers.
Giles met with Sonia Shaljean, Founder and Managing Director of Lads Need Dads, and heard more about the organisation’s important work locally to prevent potential problems, and address existing ones, in boys who are missing a father-figure in their lives.
This innovative project works primarily with boys between the ages of 11 and 15, the age when a boy’s choices, both conscious and unconscious, begin to form the foundation of the man he will become.
These are critical years, as a teenage boy beginning his journey to manhood could lose his way. That is why this organisation, which recently won an award from the Centre for Social Justice, is offering a male-led group Mentoring Programme, including:
- Bush-craft survival training and outdoor activities
- On-going support and life-skills training
- Volunteering opportunities
- Leadership and Peer mentoring
54% of boys who completed the pilot programme in 2017 had renewed or increased contact with their fathers, and 71% reported improved relationship with their fathers. Participation also led to increased confidence, self-esteem, resilience and more importantly, emotional intelligence.
But while this organisation continues to go from strength to strength, it remains in need of more male volunteers, from a variety of backgrounds and skill-sets, to help deliver its mentoring programme.
A spokesperson for the organisation said:
“We are currently seeking men from the Colchester and Tendring areas, to be trained as mentors to be part of a team that delivers our six-month activity programme.
“Opportunities are available both in the daytime and evening. Full training, an enhanced DBS check and travel expenses will be provided.
“Volunteering your time for just two hours a week can make a massive difference in the life of a young man. Mentoring is hugely rewarding, why not give it a go, you won’t be disappointed.”
Giles said:
“I would like to thank Sonia for taking the time to meet with me – her organisation does some incredibly important work, which can be crucial for the development of these young men.
“Participation in this scheme can be incredibly rewarding and I would encourage male residents throughout my constituency to consider involving themselves with this organisation, so they can help equip, engage and inspire these young men.”