Too many fathers quietly struggle to stay present in their children’s lives after separation. Not because they don’t care, but because the path back to being an involved parent can be long, uncertain and emotionally draining.

In June, we’re taking on the National Three Peaks Challenge, three mountains in 24 hours, to raise funds for Both Parents Matter, a charity that supports parents and families navigating separation and helps children maintain meaningful relationships with both parents.

This challenge is personal. I’ve been separated from my daughter for over three years. Like many fathers, I carry what I can only describe as living grief: mourning a relationship that still exists, but feels out of reach. It’s a quiet, ongoing weight that often goes unseen and unspoken.

Many fathers continue to show up regardless. They keep working, keep paying, keep trying, often without clarity, reassurance or any sense of when things might change. The emotional impact of this is rarely talked about and too often misunderstood.

This is where Both Parents Matter plays a role. They provide guidance, reassurance and support at exactly these moments, when fathers feel isolated and unsure where to turn. Their work helps parents feel less alone and gives them the strength to keep going.

For a long time, this has been something I’ve carried quietly. This climb is my way of turning that quiet struggle into something constructive. It’s 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.

This page will remain open as I take on further challenges throughout the year. All funds raised will go directly towards supporting the work Both Parents Matter does for fathers and families.

If you’d like to, please leave a short message or word in the comments. Something to remind me why this matters, and of the people I’m carrying with me every step of the way.

If you’re able to support, whether by donating or sharing, thank you. Your support helps fathers feel less alone, and that genuinely matters.

Ollie