A First Choice Homes Oldham (FCHO) customer and single parent who volunteers to ensure new members at a dad's charity are always welcome is the housing association’s October Hidden Hero.
John Taylor has been involved with Men Behaving Dadly (MBD) in Oldham since 2021 and was nominated due to the 'vital role' he plays in engaging and supporting new dads to the group.
A single parent himself to a 10-year-old son, he found it helpful to mix with other dads who are facing the same challenges and wanted that support given to as many others as possible. The 41-year-old delivery driver from Derker received his certificate and a £50 shopping voucher from FCHO funding and social value officer Kevin Field.
He said he was surprised but pleased to be given the award for doing something he enjoys.
“Coming to MBD has always been a weight off my shoulders and I wanted to make sure everyone is welcome to come to the group which meets every Saturday so they can feel the same,” he explained.
“No one judges and everyone will be met with a friendly smile and a brew. It also builds the children’s confidence too and provides a safe space to play, do crafts and activities while the dads catch up and have a laugh. You can see visible differences to the children’s confidence too. Some were so shy when they first started coming and now they bound in, and they’re off playing for the whole session. It’s brilliant for everyone involved.”
Mr Taylor was nominated for the award by Activity Coordinator at MBD Rachel Graham. “John plays a vital role in engaging and supporting new dads,” she said. “He is often the first to welcome new attendees with a smile and a cuppa, helping them feel comfortable, included, and confident to return.
“He also actively promotes Men Behaving Dadly within the local community, attending events, visiting parks and libraries, and speaking to other fathers about the group. John regularly volunteers his time to arrive early and help set up sessions, assist in organising trips and to take part in community activities such as litter picks.
“He is an outstanding role model, a true advocate for the group and he very much deserves the recognition of becoming an FCHO Hidden Hero.”
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