Joe Swash: Forgotten Young Dads | Preview (BBC Three)

In this documentary, Joe Swash meets the young men who are rewriting the young dad script - with heart, humour, and resilience.

As he follows their stories, Joe reflects on his own path into fatherhood and sparks wider conversations about masculinity, the importance of positive male role models, and why it’s time for young dads to be seen, heard, supported — and celebrated.

Reflecting on how becoming a father in his mid-twenties changed his life, Joe sets out across the country to meet other young dads who, like he once did, are navigating the highs and lows of fatherhood — often without the recognition or support they deserve.

These dads are present, loving and committed fathers, but the odds are stacked against them. Young dads are more likely to drop out of school and are among the most socially isolated and economically deprived parent groups in the country. And with baby groups still geared mostly towards mums and outdated “deadbeat dad” stereotypes lingering, it’s no surprise that many feel overlooked and sidelined.

Joe Swash said: "We don’t often hear from – or talk about – young dads in the UK. It’s been eye-opening to meet the young men behind the statistics. The ones working hard to create a good future for their kids. I feel lucky that we’ve been able to help tell their stories and hopefully we can get people thinking a bit differently about young dads.”

Ceri Aston, BBC Commissioning Editor, said: “We’re delighted that Joe is fronting this powerful documentary which shines a light on the reality of young fatherhood. As someone who became a first-time dad in his mid-twenties, Joe brings a deeply personal perspective to the film, giving a voice to young men whose stories are rarely heard. We hope this documentary helps challenge stereotypes and reshape perceptions of these dads on their journey through fatherhood.”

Joe Swash: The Forgotten Dads airs Monday 20th October at 8pm on BBC Three.