The Dad’s Business HQ should be replicated in other areas of Adelaide to give more dads a voice and vital parenting support, participants say.

Fathers engaged through Dad’s Business say they feel more confident as dads, and have grown as people since meeting social worker Darren Clarke at the HQ, which opened at Elizabeth Rise Shopping Centre early last year.

“I am just glad to have a place to go,’’ writes one dad in feedback provided to Centacare.

“Good people to talk to, to share some problems with, and hopefully get good feedback and direction – without being judged.

“There should be more groups like this around.’’

Another dad notes that he feels better equipped as a father, and is now more able to cope with challenging situations.

“I have felt very comfortable within the group and am able to speak freely about anything with no pressure/obligation,’’ another dad writes.

“I believe there should be more services for men in the community. Let’s expand this kind of service.’’

A volunteer at the adjoining Rise Community Centre states: “I have had many fathers tell me how much their lives have improved due to the help they have received.

“I have referred many fathers to Darren. Most of them come back to thank me and tell me how much Darren has helped them.’’

Dad’s Business HQ is the first dedicated space for dads in the north.