I’m a parent on a mission to reform a broken family court system—not just for myself, but for every parent who’s been sidelined, and for our children who deserve better; And may well one day depend on the system themselves

The court has drained over £20,000 from me, taken years from my life, and stolen precious time with my child. The system forces parents to fight for basic rights and pushes families into debt, despair, and disconnection. False allegations are wielded as weapons with little consequence, while the courts drag their feet. Statistics show that separated parents face emotional and financial devastation, contributing to a heartbreaking percentage of the 4,000 male suicides each year​. (https://fcrc.uk/inquiry-better-outcomes-for-separating-families/)

The government is already aware of these issues and has acknowledged that reforms like those I’m fighting for are the better path forward. Yet, change remains elusive, and every day of delay harms countless families. That’s why I’m walking the British Isles, encouraging everyone I meet to sign my petition (https://chng.it/HmjGCWRkPR) to update and reform the family court process. It only takes a moment to fill in, is completely free, and could help bring about the changes so desperately needed.

The petition supports two essential changes:

Equal Custody as the Starting Point: Courts should begin every case with the assumption of equal custody, unless there is a compelling reason not to. The “best interest of the child” means having both parents actively involved in their lives.

Accountability for False Allegations: Proven false allegations should be treated as slander and penalised. These unfounded claims clog the system and tear families apart, undermining the entire process.

While I am reluctant to ask for donations, they would allow me to continue this journey. I don’t intend to use the funds unless absolutely necessary; any remaining contributions will be donated to “Men and Their Emotions” (MATE), a charity that’s been a lifeline for me and countless others.

Follow my journey on social media at @Deadbeat_dadbod1, and if you see me and Duke, my Chihuahua companion, please say hello and share your story. This cause needs every voice.

Let’s make family courts fair for all parents, so our children grow up knowing they are loved by both.

Yours sincerely,

Michael