MEET THE
TEAM
Our group of 2000 active members are supported by our fantastic committee. We come from all walks of life, but have one shared goal, to help the mental wellbeing of other men.
OUR COMMITTEE.
Rob Lester
Chairman & Founder
I started Lads & Dads after I lost my Dad in Feb 2019 and struggled with grief. Residing in Brackla with my wife and two children, I love helping and supporting others to reach their potential in life through coaching and positive language. Man Utd fan and love watching most sport. Feel free to contact me, I'm always willing to help others.
Chris Jenkins
Family & Disabled Children's Rights
I wanted to become a mental health first aider after experiencing situational depression when my son was diagnosed with a life limited condition. I sadly also had to fight for joint shared care in the family courts which was a devastating process to go through. I'm now an active committee member working hard to help others.
Gavin Williams
Merchandise
I'm a father of three fantastic children, a football and hockey parent, and as you can see from my photo, a cold water lover. I joined Lads & Dads after experiencing some mental challenges over the past few years and I've found it a great place to safely share my thoughts.
Alan Drury
Secretary
I have lived in Bridgend for 20 years and back in 2018 I sadly lost my fiancé to cancer and the pain I experienced surrounding this led to me wanting to help set up this group to help support others. I am honoured and proud to be one of the founding members of Lads & Dads, and I have been blown away by how quickly the group has grown since the beginning in both membership and awareness. If you have a question or a concern, I'm here to listen.
David Heyburn MBE
Diversity & Inclusion
Originally from London, I have lived in Wales since 1993. I have worked in the NHS for nearly 25 years and I am a Dad of five kids. Being part of Lads & Dads has been a life changer for me and I love being part of it. I love a chat, so feel free to reach out to me if you would like a confidential and informal discussion. Most Sunday's you will find me at the sea dip.
Joe Jones
Events
I have been a member of Lads & Dads since 2020 and have been blown away by the support from likeminded members. A year later I was asked to join the committee and haven’t looked back. I now organise the events and am always open to hearing suggestions from members. I have two beautiful daughters and I am always happy to help anyone that needs support.
Dave Muckell
Treasurer
I'm a dad and husband that knows what it’s like to be at rock bottom, I have survived suicide. I believe walking and talking play a big part in our well-being, I am a trainer and life coach, and my mission in life is to help other people reach the place they should be by helping them to enjoy the journey as well as reaching their goals. Get in touch to book an informal chat or to arrange a social walk.
Olly Lewis
Media & Marketing
I joined Lads & Dads after experiencing severe mental health battles after my little sister was tragically killed in a car accident. I've lived in a very dark place but I've come through the other side and with my experience in dealing with grief, I help other members do the same. If you're struggling with the loss of a loved one, don't be afraid to reach out.
Paul Newland
Membership
I have been a member since 2019, and attended and organised events. Being a member of Lads and Dads has enabled me to participate in activities which I have never done before- such as the sea dips! I am a good listener and I will support anyone who needs a listening ear.
Ian Hamer-Davies
Alcohol & Substance Misuse Advisor
Father, Husband, Son, Brother, Schoolteacher, Scientist, musician Recovered alcoholic and outdoor enthusiast. After a journey through hell a few years ago, I was lucky enough to have found help and now live a life of happiness and gratitude; learning to love what I have and no longer yearning for more. Contact me via this group for any advice on alcohol/drug addiction and cold-water therapy.