"Experiences at Sure Start dad's group"

After attending a midweek playgroup in Selston set up by Sure Start I was recommended by a member of staff about a playgroup for dads once a month at the weekend. Being in full time employment and not being able to attend midweek playgroups with my daughter I was very happy to attend this.

On my first visit to Dads Group I felt quiet nervous and I didn’t know what to expect, this was soon eased by the welcoming staff there they made me and my daughter feel very welcome. My daughter enjoys all the events put together by the Sure Start team at Dads group and most importantly the very messy play, she enjoys it so much she asks every weekend if we are going again.

At the beginning of this year I was asked whether I’d like to volunteer for dads group, and I was delighted to take up the opportunity. I get involved in setting up the group and helping out the staff with lunch and tidying up. While volunteering for Sure Start I have the opportunity to take part in training courses to improve my volunteering skills also volunteer meetings to discuss upcoming events and give out new ideas etc. Unfortunately being in full time employment I have missed these opportunities as these events are arranged during weekdays and during my hours of work.

Showing my interest in this line of work I have also being asked whether I would like to take up a childcare course with Sure Start. I was delighted to have this chance but unfortunately I later found this course required me to give 12 hours a week of work experience. These hours would be made up during week day events, this again isn’t possible for me while I'm in full time employment.