A New Chapter for Dads Rock 💛

Big update from us…

We wanted to share a quick update about some changes behind the scenes at Dads Rock.

After more than a decade leading Dads Rock, our founder and CEO stepped down last August. Thomas Lynch was an amazing leader and dedicated supporter of Dads and families. What an incredible job he’s done. Thomas started Dads Rock back in 2012 with David Marshall, when they both wanted to do more with their kids but couldn’t find anywhere that wasn’t all about mums. The first event was a Saturday playgroup and during that first session around 12 families turned up. Fast forward to today, and we’re supporting over 4,000 parents, children and carers every year. That’s pretty amazing — and something we’re all really proud to be part of.

So… what happens next?

Since last summer, we’ve been trying out a slightly different way of doing things — a new collaborative leadership model. And luckily it’s been working really well! So well, in fact, that from 1st April the Board made it official!

With her wealth of experience and commitment to our mission since 2018, Lisa Holder is officially taking the lead as our Director. She’s working alongside our two Service Managers, Greg Borthwick (East) and Ryan Warren (West). You’ll likely know Greg and Ryan well—they are still right there on the frontline, working with families and running playgroups and workshops.

For us, this feels like a really natural next step. It’s about building from within, backing our team, and staying true to what we’re all about — being authentic, empowering, inclusive and sustainable.

Lisa brings a wealth of experience having worked for several different Third Sector organisations, Greg’s background in childcare and Ryan’s expertise working with NHS partnerships. All of us have lived experience bringing our own families which means our decisions are always guided by what dads actually need. Backed by a Board with skills in everything from HR to finance, and a team trained in trauma-informed practice and The Promise, we’re more committed than ever to making sure no dad feels alone.

As one of our dads recently told us, "I felt so alone. After speaking to you, I feel that dads do matter."

That’s why we’re here, and we’re so happy to keep rocking with you all! If you’ve been along to groups, events or sessions, chances are you already know them. They’ve been part of Dads Rock for years, they know the work inside out, and most importantly — they really care.

What does this mean?

👉 The same support for dads and families
👉 The same friendly faces
👉 No disruption to services

But also…

👉 More opportunities to grow what we do
👉 Stronger local support across Scotland
👉 A more sustainable future for Dads Rock

We also want to say:

“Huge thanks to the whole team — staff, trustees and volunteers — for your incredible support while we figured out our next chapter.”

Over the next few weeks, we’ll be sharing more on social media to properly introduce each of the team — so keep an eye out 👀

We’re excited about what’s ahead — and as always, we’re really glad you’re part of it 💛