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SUPPORT: New support service to launch for single mothers raising sons

MOM (MOTHERS of Men), the support group for single mums with sons, is to hold its first ever meet-up on Saturday August 19. Hosted at the popular Westfield Holiday Inn, nine guest speakers will be sharing their personal and inspirational stories about growing up without a father figure.

The aim of the session is to encourage and empower both single women who are raising sons, and young men who have grown up without a father figure, and are seeking positive male influences.

With the rise of negative news within different communities about an increase in crime, MOM has identified one of the causes to be a lack of positive and influential male role models.

With a hands-on approach to tackling the issue and changing the narrative, the MOM workshop is designed to encourage an open, transparent discussion and successfully assign hand-selected mentors to those who take part. Mentors and counsellors will help both mothers and sons to strengthen their communication skills and boost their confidence by breaking down the emotional wall that has been built on both sides.

PROMISING: The first Mothers of Men event will take place in August

Speakers include Janet Wright, a mother to three sons, one of which was tragically murdered in 2001 on the infamous ‘Murder Mile’ in Clapton, east London. Gbenga Ajewolé better known as ‘Pastor G’ of The Rock Church in West India Quay, east London also joins the line-up. Paul McKenzie, founder of the popular online urban news platform Soapbox and the Super You Academy, will also be speaking about his experiences.

The absence of a father figure can, at times, dramatically effect the nurturing and growth of boys. Although support exists, some single parent families are rejected when seeking mentors for young boys if they don’t fall into the category of ‘behavioural problems’ or come via a social service referral.

MOTHER AND SON: MOM Founder Dinah-Knox-Hooke and son Jayde

Support through MOM is available to all single mothers who face the sometimes difficult task of raising sons alone. MOM’s doors are open to all boys being raised without a father figure and seek a positive male influence in their lives.

Founder of MOM and single mother to her son Jayde, Dinah Knox-Hooke said:

“I know first-hand that there is a need for positive male role models for young boys whose father is absent. I want other single women who are raising boys to know they aren't forgotten - we are here to support you with our workshops, counselling and mentoring.

"Young men can also benefit from the much-needed guidance they desire from a positive male role model. We’re here to support both single mums and sons, to help guide and shape a more positive future for the next generation of men.”

The inaugural Mothers of Men event will take place on Saturday August 19 at the Holiday Inn hotel Stratford. Tickets are available to purchase online from £15 from the Mothers of Men website.

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