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Feona Charles Richards, Head of the Family and Social Services Department
By Aabigayle McIntosh
Feona Charles Richards, Head of the Family and Social Services Department, is emphasizing the importance of increased male involvement in family and child-related issues.
She expressed concern that while some men fulfil their roles as family heads, others only participate when mandated by the courts to attend workshops organized by her department.
“We have co-parenting counselling, and when communication issues arise between parents, the courts often recommend both parties participate,” Richards explained.
However, she acknowledged that some men proactively seek help to become better parents.
“It’s rare, but we do see single fathers who are dedicated to their children’s care. They often express dissatisfaction with their child’s treatment and aspire to be the sole caretaker, depending on the situation,” she added.
Richards encourages men seeking greater access or custody to follow proper legal channels.
“We advise individuals to apply for an access application through the family court within the magistrate’s court. If they are paying maintenance but are being denied access to their child, we recommend mediation first. If mediation fails, we direct them to Legal Aid and the magistrate’s court to apply for maintenance,” she stated.
The Family and Social Services Department offers resources to help both men and women improve their parenting skills.
Father’s have a real hard time with laws in Antigua. Passport . School. And others.
The law sees father as a man. Beneath the mother. Not equal. It’s hard for men. Some just give up.
Great article. Trying to make a change but the lawwwwww.