I note with sadness the death of Stephen Brown (The Argus, July 20).

Firstly, it is sad anyone should be driven to such despair as to feel taking their own life is the only solution.

Secondly, there is his family and in particular his two children who have to come to terms with the situation.

For them, the latest court rulings and proposed manifestos for the forthcoming general elections are, as often happens, too little - too late.

Finally, if Mr Brown had known where to seek help this tragedy could have been averted as there are several organisations that exist to help.

One of the most notable of these is Families Need Fathers (FNF), which is a registered charity, established some 30 years ago, whose primary aim is to help fathers where there is a breakdown in the family unit.

Approximately four months ago a branch was set up in Brighton and now meets regularly at The Crown and Anchor public house, 213 London Road, Brighton, at 8pm on the second Monday of each month.

All too often it is the father, as the non-resident parent, who suffers the most from the marital breakdown.

I would like to urge any father who is in despair and feels isolated in this situation to make contact with FNF either via their national help line - 0870 760 7496 or on their web site, www.fnf.org.uk.

Alternatively get in touch with our local FNF contact, Fairless Masterman on 01730 814197, or just drop into our next meeting on Monday, August 9 where all are welcome.

-Keith Durrant, Secretary, Sussex Branch of Families Need Fathers