Dads Unlimited Presentation

Heidi Young and Gemma Lawson reveal latest developments in the work of the Charity

Heidi Young and Gemma Lawson from Dads Unlimited are presented with a cheque
by Rotary President, Renate

‘Dads Unlimited’ is a charity that works to support men who have gone through family separation, loss of child contact, and/or are victims of domestic abuse.

Their work supports the emotional safety of men and those they care about through three key areas:

· Supporting male victims of domestic abuse

· Supporting men with family separation

· Supporting men’s mental health

“We were delighted to support Dads Unlimited because we have met the team before and the work they do is vital for the wellbeing of people in difficult circumstances.” Says Renate.

Heidi and Gemma informed the club meeting about the latest developments in the work of the Charity.

“So often in a situation where domestic abuse is present in a relationship, it is assumed that the man is likely to be the perpetrator. While this can be true in some cases, our work demonstrates that men can be the victim of domestic abuse and works to tackle this unconscious bias.” reveals Gemma, Head of the Mental Health team.

They explained that many men prefer not to talk about domestic abuse which they suffer for fear of being accused of lies or expecting to be told to ‘man up and get on with it’. In fact, support sessions give victims the ability to reveal their situation and feelings to a member of the team trained to listen, not to judge and then to support them through the process of recovery.

“We get referrals from many sources, GPs, health workers, teachers, friend and family – all of whom are concerned about a situation in some way.” Says Heidi, Head of the Domestic Abuse team.

“We are very grateful for the support of the Rotary Club of Ashford both for their interest and the financial donation which will help fund our costs.”

'What We Do' Main Pages:

Dads Unlimited Presentation

Heidi Young and Gemma Lawson reveal latest developments in the work of the Charity

Pieter welcomed as a new Member

REnate hands over to incoming President Alan and wishes him well

President Renate welcomes incoming President, Alan

We will move our meetings to The Ashford Holiday Inn North from 25th March.

Bryan, Mark, Carol Ann are congratulated by Renate at the close of the event.

Charity Concert success as 3 top musicians entertain an excited audience in Ashford's St Mary Church

The Mayor of Ashford with President Renate

Mayor Larry Krause told us about his early life in Australia and how he now supports local Charities: 'The Friends of William Harvey' and 'Men in Sheds'

Sandy, Chairman of AMS, and Tessa, Mediator, introduced their work to the club

President Renate welcomes Sally into the Club

On 22nd January, we were delighted to welcome Sally Lees as a new Associate member

President Renate and member (and Treasurer) Stuart McRae

Member Stuart McRae tells the Club abut his life and the lucky breaks that have helped him and his wife through a successful and happy life.

The Mayor of Ashford, Cllr Callum Knowles, Ashford Rotary President, Amanda Cottrell and Leader of the Council, Cllr. Gerry Clarkson open the shelter

The Rotary Club of Ashford's Community Shelter at Conningbrook Lakes Country Park was opened today.

On Monday 10th January, following a frugal supper, PP Kitty Brook, her granddaughter, Kristina, and Kristina's partner, Akeem, gave a talk on 'Malcolm's Soup Kitchen'.

John Harris spoke of the work of the CWGC

Rtn Peter Gammon spoke on Criminal Law

On Sunday 26th June we ran a Charity Cream Tea Party for around 100 people in aid of President Liz's chosen Charities -'Canine Helpers' and 'Kent MS Therapy Centre'. Thanks to all who helped make it a memorable afternoon.

The Club learnt of the support given to the hearing impaired by HI Kent

President Liz Stuart-Smith received a cheque for £600.00 from the Ashford Muslim Association

The Rotary Club of Ashford join partners to collect for earthquake victims

The new Interact Club of Towers School is now up and running.

Paul Mott of McArthurGlen, Rotary President Renate Beerling, and the Mayor of Ashford, Larry Krause. Over £1,000 was made for Charity.

McArthurGlen Management teams up with the Rotary Club of Ashford to raffle prizes freely donated by many retailers at the Outlet Centre.

Lilia with some of her collection and President Liz Stewart-Smith.

We were delighted on Monday night with a talk by 12 year old Lilia who explained the meanings of Ichimatsu Ningyo, Hina Ningyo, Daruma Ningyo, Kokeshi Ningyo and Gosho Ningyo; various forms of Japanese Doll.