A FIRST-time father is welcoming other dads to his newly set up group which offers the chance to get out and about with kids in tow. Col Bignelll, who is originally from Watford but moved to Comber four years ago, has set up Dadbods – a group for dads, grandas, male relatives, carers and guardians – any man who has responsibility for a child.
Some of the new dads who met up at Scrabo last weekend. Dadbods gives new fathers the chance to meet other dads After becoming a father to baby Monty just eight weeks ago, he realised that there was a need to meet other dads and carers in a relaxed setting, to give mum a break, meet new male friends as well as the chance to offer or receive male support and guidance. Twenty nine year-old Col, said: “I have just become a first time dad myself eight weeks ago and all the parents I know are in England so I decided to set up the group to meet other dads. “We can meet up, share tips with each other.
There’s so much you don’t realise when you become a parent for the first time – there’s lots of stressful moments and times when you are wondering if you are doing things right. “Sometimes you think about things that you don’t want to worry your partner with and so the group offers the chance to talk about those things but only if people want to.” The aim is to meet up for an hour each week with other males and their babies or kids, outdoors if weather permitting, as a chance to give mum a break and meet new male friends in an outdoor setting.
Col, a high-level runner who completed triathlons, two marathons in 2021 and is set to complete the London Marathon and an Iron Man this year, said the group also offers the chance to get out for fresh air and exercise. “I used to train five nights a week but since the baby has been born I haven’t done any,” said Col, who also emphasises that the group is laid back and not competitive in any way. “We plan to meet every week at a different location like a woodland or National Trust area where everyone can go at their own pace, bring what they need for the baby or their kids, a flask of tea or whatever and get out into the fresh air. “The woods offer a sensory experience too with the sun coming through the trees, the sights and smells and it’s good for mental health too. “But there are no rules, people can just come along and join in.” The group first met last Sunday at Scrabo Woods and welcome new members whether they are dads, grandparents, male carers or guardians. There is also no age limit for the children. To join the group email Col on colbignell4@gmail.com or join his Facebook or Instagram accounts.
