Steven’s story

Welcare’s Parenting Programme in Lewisham has helped reunite dad Steven with his baby son, Leo.

Baby Leo was taken into care after his mother had a mental breakdown. Steven didn’t see his son for weeks, eventually being allowed only weekly visits at a contact centre.

Steven was determined to see his son more regularly and joined Welcare’s parenting class for fathers.

The course covers topics such as play, praise, rewarding and self limiting. Ten months later Steven was awarded custody of his son.

‘Coming to the groups helped me to focus on my son and gave me the knowledge I needed,’ says Steven.

I know these parenting classes helped me get my son back. I still love my girlfriend and would love to be with her but now I have to focus on Leo.