Fathers' Involvement in Sure Start: What Do Fathers and Mothers Perceive as the Benefits?

This paper is based on a case study of a UK based Sure Start programme which was effective in engaging fathers. The paper details the positive views of 17 fathers and 8 mothers on the benefits of father involvement. Perceived benefits fell into three categories: fathers’ increased engagement with their young children, and concern for their psychosocial development, improved relationships with children, increased social interaction with other fathers, increased knowledge and skills through education, changing understanding of the fathering role and access to a better quality of life for the whole family. Findings are discussed in relation to implications for working with fathers from poor socio-economic backgrounds.