A group of Brent fathers is calling on parents who have separated to work together for the sake of their children.

“Father Figure”, which was set up in conjunction with Brent based group Action in the Community (AITC), campaigns for better support to be given to youngsters from broken homes.

David Mullings, 33, who co-founded the group two years ago, said: “There are fathers across the borough who don’t have access to their children.

“Just because parents may be split up or living apart doesn’t necessarily mean that they cannot work together to provide a stable upbringing for their children.” Gang culture, school exclusions and lack of positive role models were just some of the issues discussed by families and a panel of experts during a debate at Willesden Library Centre, in High Road, Willesden, last week.

Important

Louis Outkast, who is also in the group, said: “We try to focus on important community issues and to make sure that children have role models in their lives.

“Our main aim is to enforce the idea that there is always a means to provide good parenting and achieve the best for your children.”

The group plans to hold drop-in meetings across Brent in the future and work with teachers and councillors to encourage support with families.

Mr Outkast, who is from Wembley, added: “It was a great evening with a fantastic turn out. It is the seventh event we have organised and we hope to continue our good work.”

Councillor Mary Arnold, lead member for children and families at Brent Council, has praised the campaign.

She said: “I encourage local community organisations to support families and it’s great that we have community commitment to this in Brent.

“The borough has fewer children excluded from school nowadays and more gaining good qualifications. More male role models are an asset in primary schools as well as the community.”

To find out more visit www.fatherfigure.org.uk