A Male Perspective on the SFSC: Stronger Relationships Programme
As Father’s Day approaches, we focus on the essential role fathers can play in their children’s lives and spoke with two dedicated male facilitators of the SFSC: Stronger Relationships programme, Marvin Crichlow and Oluwasola Adesulu to get some insights into how SFSC supports dad with their parenting role. Their experiences shed light on how delivering the programme has enriched their own parenting as well as how it can uniquely benefit men, especially those from diverse ethnic backgrounds.
Oluwasola Adesulu
Marvin Crichlow
Personal Growth Through SFSC: Stronger Relationships Facilitation
Marvin emphasised how facilitating the SFSC: Stronger Relationships programme has impacted their own approach to parenting. Marvin noted that the programme’s emphasis on empathy, active listening, and positive discipline has improved his communication with his children. He explained,
“Facilitating SFSC sessions has made me more patient and attentive as a parent. The techniques we teach, like active listening and solution building are tools I now use daily with my own child.”
Benefits of SFSC: Stronger Relationships for Fathers
Both facilitators believe that attending the SFSC: Stronger Relationships programme offers specific benefits for fathers. Marvin pointed out that many men often feel isolated in their parenting journey, particularly if they come from backgrounds where seeking parenting advice is stigmatising.
“The SFSC programme provides a supportive environment where fathers can openly discuss their challenges without judgement. This camaraderie is vital for breaking down the barriers that prevent many men from seeking help,” Marvin explained.
Reducing Parental Conflict (RPC)
A distinctive element of the SFSC: Stronger Relationships programme is its focus on reducing parental conflict (RPC). The SFSC: Stronger Relationships programme teaches fathers how to communicate effectively and resolve disagreements constructively. These skills not only improve their relationship with their co-parent but also create a more stable and supportive environment for their children.
Many fathers benefit from learning strategies to manage and reduce conflict with their co-parent. These strategies are particularly relevant for men who might not have been exposed to healthy co-parenting relationships in their own childhoods. SFSC: Stronger Relationships provides alternative approaches that foster respect and cooperation, essential for reducing conflict and improving co-parenting relationships.
Relevance of Specific SFSC Components
When asked about which aspects of the SFSC: Stronger Relationships programme are particularly relevant for men, both facilitators highlighted several key components. Marvin emphasised the value of the programme’s focus on emotional regulation and conflict resolution.
“Many men grow up learning to suppress their emotions, which can lead to unhealthy expressions of anger or frustration. SFSC teaches practical strategies for managing emotions and resolving conflicts constructively,” he explained.
The programme’s cultural and ethnic sensitivity is another crucial aspect. SFSC acknowledges and respects the diverse cultural backgrounds of its participants, making it more inclusive and accessible. The availability of group discussions in multiple languages, such as English, Urdu, and Somali, further enhances the programme’s accessibility and relevance.
Overcoming Barriers to Participation
Time and location are significant obstacles, as many men have demanding work schedules that make attending in-person sessions challenging. SFSC addresses this by offering the SFSC: Stronger Relationships online programme with flexible self-study components and group discussions available both during the day and in the evening. This flexibility ensures that even the busiest fathers can participate and benefit from the programme.
Additionally, creating a welcoming and non-judgmental environment is essential. Men often fear being judged or seen as inadequate if they seek parenting support. SFSC’s approach is supportive and empowering, encouraging fathers to become the best parents they can be.
Conclusion
The experiences of Marvin and Oluwasola illustrate the profound impact that SFSC can have on fathers. By providing practical tools, fostering a supportive community, and addressing specific barriers, SFSC empowers fathers to play a more active and positive role in their children’s lives and reduce conflict with their co-parent. As we celebrate Father’s Day, we acknowledge the contribution of fathers, and encourage more men to engage with the SFSC programme for the benefit of their families and communities.
