A father from Surrey is preparing to take on one of the UK's most gruelling endurance challenges this Father's Day to raise money and awareness for the national shared parenting charity Both Parents Matter.
A Personal Mission
Ollie Dymock, from Epsom, will attempt the National Three Peaks Challenge — climbing Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon within 24 hours — in support of families affected by separation. The challenge holds deep personal significance for Ollie, who has not seen his now four-year-old daughter in over three years.
Rather than losing hope, he has chosen to channel his experience into something positive by fundraising for Both Parents Matter, a charity that supports separated families and campaigns to ensure children can maintain meaningful relationships with both parents after separation.
Words from Ollie
Speaking ahead of the challenge, Ollie said: “This climb is about resilience, endurance and not giving up for my daughter, and for fathers who are fighting to stay present in their children’s lives, even when the path is made difficult and harder than anyone realises.
“I’ve been separated from my daughter for over three years and, like many fathers in this situation, I live with an ongoing grief — missing someone who is still here, but no longer part of your everyday life.
“Both Parents Matter gave me support, understanding and the reassurance that I wasn’t facing it alone. Taking on this challenge is my way of giving something back and helping ensure other families can access that same support when they need it most.”
Charity's Gratitude
The fundraiser will help support the charity's vital work supporting separated parents across the UK. Sam Morfey, CEO of Both Parents Matter, said: “We’re incredibly grateful to Ollie for taking on such an enormous challenge.
“Sadly, his story is one many parents will recognise. What’s inspiring is that he’s chosen to channel that experience into something that could help other families in the future. Supporters like him make a huge difference to the work we can do.”
About the Charity
Both Parents Matter has supported separated families for over 50 years through support groups, helplines, information services and campaigning work focused on the importance of children maintaining relationships with both parents and wider family members.
People wishing to support Ollie’s challenge can donate via: www.justgiving.com/page/climbing-for-fathers
For more information about Both Parents Matter visit: www.bothparentsmatter.org.uk
