Learning ponytails in Parliament to champion support for dads

Alistair Strathern, MP for Hitchin, joined the team behind The Secret Life of Dads podcast for a Pints & Ponytails session in Parliament.

It was led by the podcast’s hosts, Mathew Carter and Lawrence Price. They taught MPs how to do ponytails, plaits and bunches, while explaining the benefits of the scheme.

Pints & Ponytails is a supportive space for men to talk about mental health, fatherhood and parenting challenges. As Mathew and Lawrence explained, men often find it easier to talk when they're doing something practical together. During the sessions, dads learn practical skills which make morning routines easier and help them to connect with their daughters.

As one of the co-founders of the Labour Group for Men and Boys, Alistair has championed initiatives which support men to become active and present fathers and encourage men to talk about mental health. Schemes like this can help tackle loneliness, support fathers' wellbeing and strengthen family relationships.

Alistair Strathern MP said: “Pints & Ponytails is a brilliant scheme to bring dads together and provide a fantastic space to learn from each other.

“While I don’t think I’ll be winning any prizes for hairstyling any time soon, it’s not just about ponytails. It’s about supporting dads to feel confident in getting their daughters ready and connecting with them.

“Speaking to Mat and Lawrence, it's clear these sessions are already making a big difference for dads across the country, boosting confidence and providing low pressure spaces to open up about the mental health strains we can all face from time to time.

“From expanding paternity leave to increasing mental health support, I’ve long campaigned in Parliament for greater support for active dads.

“Pints & Ponytails is a fantastic example of men across the country stepping up to provide the spaces and support every dad should be able to benefit from. A big well done and thank you to Mat and Lawrence for leading the way on this!”