The Families Commission says a new on-line resource for separated dads will help the whole family.

New Zealand-based international website DIYFather.com releases its online resource on Fathers’ Day (4 September) this year, with thirty articles including practical tips and information about legal rights and support services.

Families Commission Chief Executive Paul Curry says, “Anything that helps men stay in touch and have healthy relationships with their families and children is a good thing.”

He says, “For some separated fathers and their children, Fathers Day can be a really tough time. If trust and communication between the parents has broken down, it can be hard, or even impossible, to make this a day to celebrate the role of a father in his family.”

Mr Curry says evidence shows that long term stable relationships are best for kids, but that separated families can also thrive when adults cooperate.

“When separation has occurred it is important everything possible is done to maintain the parenting relationship, even if the love relationship is over.”

He says knowledge and supportive advice can help defuse some of the frustration and ensure that children’s needs come first.

“Most people rely on family, whānau and close friends to help them through, but sometimes it can make a big difference to get some additional information and support. The whole family benefits when dads have a great relationship with their kids.”

Kiwi dads thinking about separation or going though separation can visit http://diyfather.com/separation to access resources.

ENDS

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