Dads. We’ve all at one time or another had one. Of course, some are grumpy, others are joyful, most fluctuate between the two. But, when they’re gone, they’re gone and while most people celebrate Father’s Day by buying cards and gifts, it can also be a tough time for others.
Enter a new campaign from mental health charity Movember to honour those dads who have lost their lives to health conditions, including prostate cancer, or to suicide.
The charity has created the set of cards as artwork for the activity. Illustrated by Andrew Rae, each one features a short poem and drawing based on families’ favourite memories and stories of their fathers.
Running on earned media, paid media, and through partnerships across social supported by influencers, the idea is to help dispel the silence around men’s health.
They remember the dads of Beth Jones, Gareth Cox, Harry Cleary, Stevie Scott, Georgie Padley, Katy Martins, and Will Castle, with the cards featuring illustrations of them playing the drums on the sofa, crabbing in Devon and singing concerts in cars.
In 2019, Stevie lost her dad to prostate cancer. Known for his selflessness and putting himself above others; speaking about the impact her dad had, Stevie said: “He was such a family-orientated man, who would do anything for my sister, mum and I. The way he lived has made me value people and appreciate my family but also the importance of speaking to others about ones health and taking action on it.”
In fact, research found that less than a third (29%) of people speak about health and wellbeing with their fathers, despite the positive impact they have on people’s lives. Fathers are described as being funny (33%), understanding (34%), and caring (30%).
The statistic highlights the culture of silence surrounding men’s health is still prevalent and the charity wants more open conversations about our health and support our fathers so that we can celebrate more Father’s Days together.
Depressingly, around two in five male deaths (39%) happen prematurely, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS) – equating to over 2,500 each week.
Movember CEO Michelle Terry said: “We’d like to thank all the families that contributed to the cards for their strength and courage in stepping forward and sharing their heartfelt stories.
“Because behind every poem and illustration is a tragic story of loss and despair that touches family, friends, and communities which is mirrored thousands of times over up and down the country.
“There has long been a misconception and stigma surrounding men’s health that has held people back from seeking help when it’s needed.
“And, at a time when men’s health is taking a worrying dip against a backdrop of economic and social unrest, urgent collective action is needed to make men’s health a national priority, and for the next government to put this issue front and centre of their plans if we are to holt the unacceptable decline.”
So, what is the consensus around the Decision Marketing office?
Naturally, dads can be annoying; for many it’s their raison d’etre, but for those people whose dads are no longer around this can be a tough time of year; as we have said before, the Dead Dads’ Club is not a great place to be a member of.
So, come on, let’s take the message of this campaign further to ensure all dads are around for as long as possible. Even so, you dads also have a role to play in making sure you are there for your kids, too. Just get help when you need it and stop being so bloody stubborn.
Decision Marketing Adometer: A “love your dad” 10 out of 10
