Media Release
Thursday 26 October, 2006
Connecting separated fathers to help and support
For some dads the impact of a separation can feel overwhelming. Connecting separated fathers to appropriate support is a key factor in helping them move through this phase into more positive times.
The Child Support Agency's Paul Berrigan works with separated dads in Perth and regional Western Australia every day and will be talking to separated fathers and community service providers about Connecting Fathers to Help and Support at the Men's Advisory Network (MAN) Conference: Babies to Blokes on 31 October in Fremantle.
"Society has changed enormously over the past 20 years. It is clear that fathers are taking a more hands on role in their kid's lives," said Mr Berrigan.
"There's no longer the expectation that mum will have the kids after a separation and dad will have them to stay for the odd weekend and for a week in the school holidays."
"In fact, more than 21 per cent of cases registered with CSA in the first six months of 2006 had a male receiving child support, meaning the dads were the majority carer."
"Over half of child support parents privately transfer money between themselves. This is a strong indicator of co-operation between parents post separation and a good sign for their children's emotional and financial wellbeing."
"CSA works with the Family Relationship Centres and men's organisations such as MAN to support fathers and ensure better outcomes for their children," said Mr Berrigan.
CSA is also supporting separated dads in the workplace through its award winning Staying Connected programme.
"Men are sometimes reluctant to seek help. CSA's half day program gives them practical strategies on taking better care of themselves, having a more civil relationship with the other parent and staying connected with their kids."
CSA also has a great series of free booklets, the Me and My series to help parents with the transition through separation.
Me and my Kids - parenting from a distance, is particularly useful for fathers, providing practical ideas on activities to enjoy together, staying in touch, and how to understand what your kids might be feeling.
Copies of the free booklets and information on the other products and services offered to separated fathers are available from www.csa.gov.au or by phoning 1800 040 972.
Media contact CSA: (02) 6272 8540
Media enquiries should be directed to Paul Berrigan (08) 9338 2777 or 0407 905 035
