Derker dad recognised as FCHO Hidden Hero for supporting local fathers group

(L-R) Kevin Field, FCHO Funding and Social Value Officer with Robert Prestwich, Men Behaving Dadly

A father from Derker who has spent years supporting a local dads charity has been named First Choice Homes Oldham’s Hidden Hero for May.

Robert Prestwich was recognised for his volunteer work with Men Behaving Dadly, where he has supported families and community activities since 2019.

The 45 year old graphic designer has used his own time and skills to support the charity by helping organise sessions, creating graphics and representing the group at community events.

Robert, who is father to 11 year old Serah, received a certificate and a £50 shopping voucher from First Choice Homes Oldham.

He said he was humbled to receive the recognition and reflected on how joining the group had changed his own life.

Robert said, “The group is just for dads or male caregivers and they are the best group of dads I’ve ever come across who are now my friends and their children are my daughter’s friends too.”

He added, “Back when I joined the group, I didn’t have much money and couldn’t take my daughter on fancy days out, so I began attending Men Behaving Dadly and met this wonderful community.”

He said the group has grown beyond weekly sessions and now organises activities including barbecues, park visits, cinema trips and occasional evenings out for fathers.

Robert was nominated by Rachel Graham, activity coordinator at Men Behaving Dadly, who praised his contribution to the organisation.

She said, “Rob consistently goes above and beyond to support our group and the wider community, often without recognition and he really embodies the values of MBD.”

Rachel said he had helped redesign logos and graphics, contributed to planning and development work and represented the organisation at community events and research projects.

She added, “Rob’s dedication, positivity, and genuine care for others make a significant difference to the lives of the dads and families we work with, and he really is a true Hidden Hero who deserves to step out into the limelight.”