Dads in Distress (DIDS) has opened a support service and will run weekly meetings and a referral service for dads facing the trauma of separation and divorce.

The group will meet at the Bathurst Information and Neighbourhood Centre (BINC) from Tuesday, August 5, at 6.30pm.

Three Bathurst men – Mark Stevens, Brad Hargans and John Vickery – have completed a nationally accredited peer support facilitation program designed by leading professionals in support services.

The DIDS peer facilitation program has set a national benchmark to support services to men in distress.

The men said a separation or divorce is a challenging time in a dad’s life. The group is there for men to talk openly about their thoughts and feelings, and have the opportunity to get others’ perspectives that will help them to look at the whole picture, especially from the children’s perspective.

Mr Hargans said fathers who attend this group will feel listened to, not judged, and understood.

There is also an opportunity to connect with other dads in the community who are experiencing similar feelings and challenges as they re-establish themselves as a separated parent.

“They may also be able to receive referrals to local services that may be able to assist them in the future,” he said.

“As most blokes when we find ourselves in any type of situation we haven’t been in before, ultimately we are looking for answers to solve the problem we are faced with.

"Dads in Distress can help empower you to find those answers."

Meetings will be held every Tuesday from 6.30pm.