Families Need Fathers: History and Evolution of the Shared Parenting Campaign
The journey toward equal parenting rights in the United Kingdom has been shaped significantly by the efforts of Families Need Fathers. Founded on the belief that children benefit from the active involvement of both parents following a separation, the organization has spent decades campaigning for systemic changes in how the family justice establishment handles custody and contact.
The Origins and Early Growth
Families Need Fathers was established in May 1974 by Alick Elithorn, a child psychiatrist, and Keith Parkin, a financial consultant. The organization was created to campaign for increased contact between children and their non-custodial parents—those who do not have primary physical custody—and to advocate for equal parenting time after divorce.
The organization's formal structure evolved over the following two decades. It became a registered charity in 1979 and expanded its operational capacity by hiring professional staff in 1992.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Expansion and the Rise of Shared Parenting Coalitions
During the 1990s, the movement for shared parenting grew rapidly. This growth led to the emergence of several spin-off organizations founded by former employees of Families Need Fathers, including:
- Parents Forever Scotland
- The Association of Shared Parenting
- Dads After Divorce
- Fathers4Justice
In an effort to unify these various voices, the Cheltenham Group was formed in 1994. This coalition brought together Families Need Fathers, Dads After Divorce, and Parents Forever Scotland to create a more cohesive front for parenting advocacy.
Modern Era and Strategic Shifts
In 2008, the charity launched a series of projects under the slogan "Both Parents Matter," a phrase that was officially integrated into the organization's logo in 2013. By 2010, the charity had established a robust infrastructure consisting of 51 branches across the United Kingdom and a network of 300 volunteers.
The organization continues to operate as a social care entity while advocating for shared parenting within the media, the House of Commons, and the family justice system. Leadership has seen transitions over the years, with Jon Davies serving as chief executive from 2006 to 2010. The organization is currently led by CEO Sam Morfey and Chair Paul O'Callaghan.
Organizational Milestones
| Year | Event/Milestone |
|---|---|
| 1974 | Founded by Alick Elithorn and Keith Parkin |
| 1979 | Became a registered charity |
| 1992 | First staff members hired |
| 1994 | Formation of the Cheltenham Group coalition |
| 2008 | Launch of "Both Parents Matter" projects |
| 2024 | Members vote to rename the charity to "Both Parents Matter" |
Key Facts
- Founders: Alick Elithorn (child psychiatrist) and Keith Parkin (financial consultant).
- Core Mission: Campaigning for equal parenting time and increased contact for non-custodial parents.
- Scale: Reached 51 UK branches and 300 volunteers by 2010.
- Recent Change: On October 12, 2024, 91% of members voted to change the organization's name to "Both Parents Matter."
Frequently Asked Questions
Who founded Families Need Fathers?
The organization was founded in May 1974 by child psychiatrist Alick Elithorn and financial consultant Keith Parkin.
What is the primary goal of the organization?
The organization campaigns for equal parenting time after divorce and seeks to increase the amount of contact between a child and their non-custodial parent.
Has the organization changed its name?
Yes. On October 12, 2024, members voted with a 91% majority to change the charity's name to "Both Parents Matter."
What is the Cheltenham Group?
Formed in 1994, the Cheltenham Group was a coalition consisting of Families Need Fathers, Dads After Divorce, and Parents Forever Scotland.
Who currently leads the organization?
The current CEO is Sam Morfey and the current chair is Paul O'Callaghan.