Liam’s Story

Just over a year ago, Liam, his partner, and their then one-year-old son, Logan, moved from Leeds to Edinburgh. Starting a new chapter is always exciting but also comes with its downsides. Moving away from your friends and community will always be a scary change.

Back in Leeds, Liam had gone to some general playgroups with Logan, and while they were welcoming, Liam was usually in the minority as a dad/male-carer. This often meant it was more difficult for him to make connections and find support through them. He noticed he really appreciated the different experience of going to a Dad's playgroup but these only occurred occasionally, once a month, and so were a rare highlight.

Once they had gotten settled into Edinburgh, Liam knew exactly what he was looking for: a place specifically for dads and their kids where he could make connections with other dads and spend some quality time with Logan. Naturally, he found Dads Rock.

Liam and Logan now regularly attend the Sunday playgroups, which have become a highlight of their week. 

“I work full-time,” Liam explains, “So Logan usually goes to things like this with his mum. These playgroups give us dedicated time together on the weekend, which I really value.”

The two of them will spend time playing together, and now that Logan is a bit older he is able to play independently or with friends he has made at the playgroup. This also gives Liam a chance to enjoy a rare moment of calm, sit back with a cup of tea and chat with other dads.

And the sense of community doesn’t end there. Liam and a group of dads will often go and grab coffee together after playgroups, continuing the conversations and friendships that start in the playgroup. 

Liam is also a part of Dads Rock’s Whatsapp Community, where he can chat with other dads and mums online. Liam says, “The group is a great place to look for advice because there are enough people that no matter what you are going through with your child, there is someone who has experienced something similar”.

For Liam, Dads Rock has become much more than just a weekend activity. It's a welcoming, supportive community where he can connect with other parents, share experiences, and feel understood. It’s a place where Logan can play, grow, and build friendships, and where Liam can make lasting memories with his son. Whether it's chatting over tea at the playgroup, grabbing coffee with other dads, or finding support in the WhatsApp group, Dads Rock has helped Liam feel truly at home in his new city.

Liam and Logan at a Dads Rock Trip to Sighthill Fire Station