The Divorced Dad’s Handbook

If the law is gender neutral why do just 7% of fathers get custody of their children following a divorce? Many fathers believe the law is prejudiced against them, and Bob Geldof even went as far as calling it “state sanctioned kidnapping”. The situation is compounded by the lack of practical advice and guidance for dads to support them in their ‘new environment’. Most turn first to a lawyer, which often comes at a high price and with low reward.

Steve Davies is a divorced father who was forced to face these challenges back in 2000. He was so frustrated by the lack of support that he decided to write The Divorced Dad’s Handbook (published on 8th January 2007 by HowToBooks). The book introduces some stark and shocking facts about fathers’ relationships with their children post divorce, for example, 40% of all fathers lose contact with their children within two years.

Commenting on the reasons for writing The Divorced Dad’s Handbook, Steve said: “The only books I could find were written by psychologists or were US based. This was of little practical use to me or the thousands of UK fathers each year who are forced to survive in their new environment.

“Like many fathers I initially turned to a lawyer, but in my experience (and many other fathers too) this was a complete waste of time and money. The statistics clearly back this up. A much better and cheaper option is a ‘Mackenzie friend’, who can provide more practical guidance and support.

“After my divorce I decided to write a book based solely on my experiences, but it soon became clear that other fathers were equally as frustrated. I therefore decided to widen the scope and subsequently interviewed over 50 dads plus spoke with organisations such as ‘Families Need Fathers’ and the high profile ‘Fathers for Justice’. The result is The Divorced Dad’s Handbook, which I hope will be of equal value to mothers and relatives to help them understand the position from a father’s perspective.”

The Divorced Dad’s Handbook is available now in bookshops across the country or direct from How To Books on 01476 541080 or orders@gbs.tbs.co.uk priced at £9.99. ISBN: 978-184528-147-2.