Views of young fathers who’ve been in care sought for research

The thoughts and views of fatherhood from young men who have previously been in care are being sought by a University lecturer.

Debbie Kilsby is a Senior Lecturer in Practice Development in the University’s Nursing team and is conducting research for her Doctor of Professional Practice in Health and Social Care.

She’s looking to interview young men who have previously been in care and are now fathers, to discuss their experiences of becoming a dad, what has been helpful for them and what hasn’t.

Volunteers who fit the criteria below will be asked to take part in a virtual chat or phone call to talk about their experiences, taking between 30 minutes – 1 hour. A second interview will take place a few weeks later:

• Young fathers, those with their own child and stepfathers
• Aged between 16-25 years old
• Were in local authority care as a child
• Can communicate in English
• Are not currently involved in child protection proceedings in relation to their child.

Debbie said: “I’ve had the privilege of working with young fathers, particularly those who have been in care as children. Often, I hear how they feel their voice isn’t heard.

“This has made me want to focus on this as part of a research doctoral degree at the University of Northampton, to properly investigate the issues at play to better help support them and their families in the future.

“I can’t promise what changes will follow taking part in the research, but I am committed to working hard to feedback volunteers’ views to relevant services so they can better meet the needs of young fathers.”

If you’d like to take part, please get in touch with Debbie directly: Debbie.kilsby@northampton.ac.uk or call 07787 985 927.