From Lads To Dads

Supporting Fathers with Counselling & Therapeutic Support

A community-based network helping dads and dads-to-be become positive, influential role models in their children’s lives.

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What we do

We provide a safe and confidential environment for fathers to connect, share experiences, and grow as individuals and parents. We are committed to assisting young fathers as they navigate parenthood, and becoming positive role models in their children's lives. Based in South Dublin, we also offer mobile sessions to ensure accessibility.

Our Services: Nurturing Fathers Every Step of the Way

At From Lads to Dads, we understand the challenges and joys of being a young father. We offer a comprehensive range of services tailored to meet our members' unique needs, empowering and supporting them on their parenting journey.

Our community-based support system is the foundation of From Lads to Dads. Through regular support sessions, we foster camaraderie and shared experiences among fathers. These sessions provide a safe space for young fathers to express their thoughts, concerns, and triumphs. Our aim is to create a network that empowers fathers to develop confidence, resilience, and effective parenting strategies.
We understand the importance of privacy and trust. At From Lads to Dads, we prioritize confidentiality, providing a secure environment for fathers to openly share their experiences without judgment. Your stories and discussions within our support group remain strictly confidential, allowing you to explore fatherhood with peace of mind.
To ensure inclusivity and accessibility, we offer mobile sessions that cater to different geographical locations and individual requirements. By bringing our support directly to fathers, we eliminate barriers to participation and ensure that everyone can connect with our community, regardless of their location.
From Lads to Dads is more than just a support group; we are a knowledge hub dedicated to equipping fathers with valuable resources and information. Our extensive network of professionals and experts enables us to provide reliable and practical guidance on healthcare, legal matters, and parenting techniques. We empower fathers to make informed decisions for themselves and their families.

Inspiring The Next Generation

With Your Best Self.

Compassionate Support for Dads wherever they are on the parental journey

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Embrace the Journey of Fatherhood with From Lads to Dads

Our comprehensive ten-week program, From Paternity to Birth and Beyond, provides practical advice, emotional support, and essential coping and communication skills. Whether you are preparing for the arrival of your first child or seeking guidance as an experienced dad, our expert team is here to guide and support you every step of the way.

From Paternity To Birth

And Beyond

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About Us: Passionate Advocates for Fathers

Our team consists of experienced fathers, child development professionals, and community leaders dedicated to helping young fathers overcome challenges and become active and influential role models. Through our commitment to excellence, compassion, and expertise, we inspire young fathers and empower them to create nurturing environments for their families.

Our Amazing Team

Hi I'm David

I am the founder of this incredible organisation that is FLTD I am a father of two and started out my parental journey as a young dad.
Hi I'm Sinead

I have worked in the charity sector for almost 10 years. I enjoy being focused on driving change and helping to improve the lives of others.
Hi I'm Jeff

Father to two children and a lazy dog. I’ve worked with some charities over the years in a small capacity.
Hi I am Sophie

I have been involved with FLTD since the very beginning. I have been helping out with social media platforms, along with promotions & events.
Hi I am John

I have been involved with a number of charities as a volunteer for several years. Being part of the passionate and driven FLTD team is one of the best journeys I have been involved in.

Media Mentions & Features

Dave Saunders and his work with From Lads to Dads have been highlighted across leading Irish media and community platforms

Adult Dyslexia Hub

A personal feature about Dave’s late dyslexia diagnosis and how it shaped his path as a community leader and therapist.
➤ Read Feature

Virgin Media – The Elaine Show

Dave appeared on Virgin Media’s Elaine Show to share his story as a young father and the inspiration behind From Lads to Dads.

RTE Radio 1 – The Ryan Tubridy Show

Dave discussed becoming a dad at 17, the challenges he faced, and how it led him to establish From Lads to Dads.
➤ Listen on RTE

The Echo

“From Lads to Dads creates a positive pathway for men”
➤ Read Article

“From Lads to Dads to build positive parenting”
➤ Read Article

The Irish Examiner

Coverage on fatherhood, mental health, and the stigma men face when seeking support.
➤ Read Article

NewsGroup.ie

“Tallaght fathers call for greater equality and engagement in their parenting role.”
➤ Read Article

Organisations We’ve Worked With

YOUTH REACH | FOROIGE | DORAS BUI | DEANSRATH FAMILY | FAMILIBASE | DEONACH TALLAGHT PROBATION PROJECT | BARNARDOS | FATHERS NETWORK SCOTLAND | DCYA PARENTING SUPPORT POLICY UNIT | JIGSAW | KILLINARDEN FAMILY RESOURCE CENTRE | ONE FAMILY IRELAND | NORTHSIDE PARENTING | PARENTING NI | UNIVERSITY COLLEGE DUBLIN (UCD) | DUBLIN CITY UNIVERSITY (DCU) | UNIVERSITY OF LIMERICK (UL) | UNIVERSITY COLLEGE CORK (UCC) | TECHNOLOGICAL UNIVERSITY DUBLIN (TU DUBLIN) | NEWS PAPERS (INDEPENDENT, TIMES, ECHO, NEWSGROUP) | FAMILY RESOURCE CENTRES | ADULT DYSLEXIA HUB

What Dads say about Us

"

| really enjoy the Lads to Dads monthly zoom meetings. It's great to hear the challenges other Dads face in their parenting journey. The caliber of guest speakers is phenomenal, and the expertise they provide is invaluable. | have learned so much from these meetings. | would like to commend Dave for all his efforts in providing this excellent resource for Dads.
Mark R
"

I've attended just two sessions with FLTD after hearing about Dave's work on Facebook. I already | have a grasp of the sense of community within the group and how Dave has fostered a safe space for everyone. All topics are encouraged. There is a wide group of Dads taking part - Dads to be, new Dads, and more experienced Dads, so there is a foundation of knowledge in each discussion…
Paul M
"

There is no question too personal, and everyone gets a chance to be heard. You could have a tough time with your newborn, questioning if you are doing things the right way or not, once you get on the zoom call, you quickly realize all Dads go through similar experiences and this gives you confidence. Plus, there is a good mix of people on the call to have some banter also, which is great.
Brian P
"

Thank you From Lads to Dads, for helping us Dads grow and feel supported in becoming a parent; we all need help along the way, brilliant initiative.
Gearoid B
"

| found it very informative and beneficial to be able to take part and ask questions to other Dads about any tips they might have in being a first-time Father. Last night’s session was about getting small ones to sleep, and any advice is always great to take on board, not only for the small people but also for their parents to function and be the best parent possible.
Rob McC
"

Having a place for men to talk openly and honestly about the fear and worry of becoming a parent is unique. Thanks to everyone at FLTD. It is a brilliant initiative and badly needed in all communities; we often get forgotten and left behind as Dads.
Dad

Ready to take the next step?

From Lads to Dads is here to guide and support you every step of the way. Join our community of young fathers committed to becoming positive role models and shaping their children's lives. Connect with us today to learn more about our services, discuss your unique needs, and take the first step toward embracing fatherhood.