Spurgeons centre focuses on Birmingham's hard-to-reach fathers

From staying and playing to mixing fruit smoothies, the role of dad should be celebrated daily. That's the Fathers' Day message from Anthony Road Children's Centre in Birmingham.

"Fathers' Day is very important but we need to look beyond the cards and presents on this one day," said Aggie Kent, Operational and Deputy Childrens Centre Manager at Anthony Road, a Spurgeons and Surestart project.

"Many dads need encouragement and advice to fulfill the role effectively throughout the year."

Children's centres are often perceived as the preserve of female workers but the Anthony Road Childrens Centre in Birmingham has a full-time male worker, Sham Hussain, whose remit includes engaging with dads in the area.

On average, Sham will see some 40 each week, helping them finding work or training courses. For many, English is not a first language so he will help them in this area as well.

All week, in the run-up to Fathers' Day, Men's Health days have taken place in three local schools. Dads have been shown how to make healthy, fruit-based smoothies, received a BMI (body mass index) check and full information on healthier life styles. Free radio-operated pedometers have also been offered to the first 10 dads to turn up.

"Many dads are hard to reach, but can play a vital role in their children's development," said Aggie Kent.

"Mums are traditionally seen as the major focus for child-rearing but we encourage dads to take their children to nursery, attend stay-and-play sessions and get involved in their childrens lives. It can make a real difference to both the dad and child."

Spurgeons have several projects across Birmingham and the West Midlands which include children's centres and young carers, bereavement and parenting projects.