I’m Denny and I’ve been part of the Lads Need Dads family since 2020, after being blown away by its uniqueness and dedication to supporting fatherless young men. Originally starting as a volunteer mentor, I went on to become a member of staff at LND, facilitating a group of boys and volunteer mentors on the ‘Equip, Engage and Inspire’ programme. I have also been part of the reading mentor programme, working one to one with boys in primary school to support them emotionally, through the power of books.

Having lived and studied in London for university, I have since moved back to the capital to work as a Mental Health Youth Worker at Mind. This position involves supporting and equipping young people, parents, and youth workers to break down any stigma around mental health, creating a safe space to do so.

Due to the deep sense of connection I have formed through being part of LND, I continued to keep in touch and catch up with the boys in person whenever possible. The desire to stay involved has led to me start a new part-time role as a remote Mental Health Support Mentor for the boys on the latest LND cohort. I will use my own experience and skills to offer extra support to the boys on their journey through adolescence, becoming a man and all things male mental health.

Outside of work, I enjoy hiking in the mountains, playing football, travelling, and trying out new restaurants! I am passionate about the power of play and its transformative effect on people of all ages, but especially young people. Therefore, this is at the heart of my coaching and learning style both professionally and personally.