We offer group and one-to-one support for new and expecting fathers with children up to 2 years old across East Sussex.
Funded by East Sussex Council and the local Family Hubs provision.
What support is available?
At Parents in Mind, we understand that being an expecting father or a dad with young children can sometimes bring about struggles and anxieties.
Our aim is to create a welcoming and non-judgmental space where dads can come together, build relationships, and feel comfortable sharing their experiences. Parenthood is an incredible journey, but it can also be overwhelming at times. We want to help you feel more confident every step of the way.
Parents in Mind provides a range of opportunities for dads to connect, both informally and formally, including:
- Dad's Stay and Play sessions
- Dad's Support and Listening groups
- Socials and Events
Dad's Stay and Play sessions
We are pleased to announce our three Dad-specific stay and play sessions in Eastbourne, St Leonards-on-sea, and Hailsham. These sessions are designed to be fun and interactive, allowing dads to bond with their little ones while also connecting with other fathers in the community.
Devonshire Family Hub
43 Seaside, Eastbourne BN22 7NB
Weekly sessions from Thursday 9 May 2024, 12:30pm to 2pm
St Leonards Family Hub
Clyde Road, St Leonards-on-sea, TN38 0QE
Fortnightly sessions from Thursday 9 May 2024, 12:30pm to 2pm
Hailsham Family Hub
Vega Close, Hailsham, BN27 2JZ
Weekly sessions from Thursday 21 May 2024, 12:30pm to 2pm
Dad's Support and Listening groups
We understand that sometimes you just need to talk, which is why we host a fortnightly Zoom group exclusively for dads. Whether you want to offload, ask questions, or simply listen, our virtual gatherings provide a safe space for open discussion and support.
We also provide one-on-one support sessions where dads can freely express their concerns and open up about any challenges they may be facing.
Sessions held online on Zoom
Fortnightly sessions from Tuesday 14 May 2024, 6:30pm to 8pm
Socials and Events
As our program continues to grow, we are developing new social opportunities for dads to connect and thrive. We believe that every dad deserves support, understanding, and a strong community behind them.
Dad's Coastal Walk
Our first event of the year to connect dads and local organisations across East Sussex.
Meeting point at The Kiosk (Helen Garden, Eastbourne) at 9:30am, Sunday 9 June 2024.
Dad's WhatsApp Group
Join our Dad's WhatsApp group where you can connect with Peer Supporters and stay updated on all the exciting updates from Parents In Mind. It is a fantastic opportunity for dads to connect and engage!
Social media
You can follow us on social media on Instagram.
Meet the Parents in Mind East Sussex Team
Kevin Wishart – East Sussex Service Delivery Manager
Kevin is committed to creating a space where dads feel understood, valued, and supported. His journey with Parents in Mind is driven by a genuine passion for making a positive impact in the lives of fathers and families.
Lewis Heyes – East Sussex Volunteer Coordinator
Lewis is dedicated to leveraging his personal experiences to establish a nurturing environment where fathers receive support. His journey, centered on supporting parents, is fueled by a desire to combat the stigma surrounding paternal mental health, ultimately leading to a beneficial influence on fathers' lives.
Become a Parents in Mind volunteer
Our project is always keen to welcome new volunteers – parents with lived experience of the struggles raising a newborn can bring, who are passionate about supporting the wellbeing of those in the East Sussex community navigating these struggles today.
Volunteers can give two hours a week in exchange for free accredited mental health training and the chance to make a transformative impact on the early days of family life.
Further information
For more information about East Sussex Parents in Mind for Dads and Partners, please contact Kevin Wishart at kevin.wishart@nct.org.uk.