Too many men struggle in silence after a family breakup. Dads dealing with custody and access issues can have a particularly hard time with the added distress of being separated from their children. Studies tell us that men in these circumstances experience high levels of isolation, illness and despair. CRANES’ Community Support Programs recognise, through their parenting workshops and community consultation, that there are many dads in the Clarence Valley dealing with their situation alone. While many admit they don’t actively seek support, the reality is that support is not always available. This is why facilitators from CRANES’ Family Relationship Skills Program (FRSP) are working with some inspiring local dads to form a support group appropriately titled Dads are Important. The group is for dads of any age or background where they have the opportunity to share their experiences and offer each other support through difficult times. The FRSP team cannot offer legal advice or advocacy but they can provide information and guidance on family relationship issues such as parenting from a distance, maintaining relationship with kids, managing conflict and communicating with the ex-partner, coping with stress, and importance of self care. Dads play an important role in the raising of both boys and girls and CRANES’ Family Relationship Skills Program continue to assist dads with parenting and family relationship issues. Helping dads set up this support group is part of this commitment. The first meeting of the Dads are Important group will be on the 14th of March (6.30pm to 8.30pm) at Sunshine House, 10 Kemp St Grafton and then, if successful, the second Monday of every month. There is no cost to attend and light refreshment will be provided. Bookings are recommended. Unfortunately CRANES cannot provide childcare for evening programs. For more details contact the FRSP team at CRANES on 6642 7257 or admin@cranes.org.au More information on CRANES’ Family Relationship Skills Program can be found on CRANES’ website www.cranes.org.au