Project on separated fathers comes to a close Every year, thousands of parents in Sweden decide to separate. For children, it often marks one of the most significant upheavals in their lives. Through our three-year project “Pappor i separation”, funded by Allmänna arvsfonden, we aimed to improve support for fathers and explore how separated dads experience their own situation. Early and targeted support can make a real difference for fathers who are going through a separation. The project ”Pappor i separation” has enabled us to create specific support groups for separated fathers, launch a digital discussion platform, and produce educational materials for professionals working with fathers. Our goal is to help fathers process separation, reflect on their parenting roles, and lay the foundation for successful co-parenting. Many fathers described the opportunity to speak with others in similar situations—as they navigated feelings of guilt, worry, and the challenge of putting their children’s needs first—as life-changing.As part of the project, we commissioned a survey in which 1,000 separated fathers were asked about their experiences. Many reported feelings of isolation, difficulties finding information about available support, and that it was hard to summon the courage or energy to seek out the help that does exist. Only two in ten fathers said they had received information about support services when their relationship ended.Research also shows that separation can trigger mental health issues, violence, and the loss of contact with one’s children—and in the worst cases, this can put children at risk. At the same time, preventative parenting support for fathers remains underdeveloped. ” Many fathers described the opportunity to speak with others in similar situations as life-changing. By encouraging more open conversations about the vulnerability men may feel during life crises, these difficult moments can become opportunities for growth. Studies also show that fathers who receive the support they need during separation often end up with stronger relationships with their children. They take more responsibility for both daily tasks and emotional care, and develop deeper connections with their kids.By moving away from the stereotype of fathers as secondary figures, and instead viewing them as active, engaged—and sometimes vulnerable—parents who may need support, we can create better conditions for children to form secure relationships with both parents.Although the “Pappor i separation” project has now come to an end, our work continues—through father support groups and the platform Pappor.se.Further reading (in Swedish)Final report on "Pappor i separation"Our survey on separated fathers' experiences