Having a child with autism can put strain on you and your family. For fathers, they can often hide their emotions away and find it harder to accept advice from others.
A support group Fathers of Autistic Children Empowered to Support (FACES) has been established in Salford to promote collaborative problem solving and help enhance mental health and wellbeing for fathers of children with autism.
The walk and talk group meet at Clifton Country Park (outside the Café) on the third Saturday of the month and is helping create a network of dads who can share their experiences and support each other.
It provides an opportunity for both fathers and their children to make new friends and bond together in the outdoors.
Stefano, one of the dads who attend the group, said: “I want to express my gratitude for setting up this group. I see it as an excellent opportunity for individuals like me who may find it challenging to interact with unfamiliar people.
“Although I'm not very good at starting conversations, I can always listen to and, eventually, join ongoing chats. Walking provides a comfortable and non-intimidating environment where conversations can flow naturally.”
Louise Cooper, lead children’s disability nurse, said: “It has been a privilege to support these fathers through the walk and talk and to observe the interactions between the fathers and their children. The activity of walking seemed to provide an element of control which is not afforded in a large group situation.
“The fathers can literally step outside of uncomfortable conversations and step back in or join another conversation. When needed, the informal walking environment can provide distractions, for example drawing attention towards a landmark, tying a shoelace or catching one’s breath. It is hoped that in the future the group will increase in size, and we can progress with themed walks.”
If you wish to attend, please contact Louise Cooper on 0161 206 2281 or email fathersautism@nca.nhs.uk