New local support programme for new and expectant dads

Article date: 9 December 2024

Research shows that around one in 10 men experiences mental health difficulties in the first six months after baby arrives. And although awareness is growing, a dad's wellbeing can get sidelined.

This innovative programme is part of the well-established Dad Matters UK, originally developed by Home-Start HOST (in Oldham, Stockport, Tameside and Boltons) seven years ago to help address the lack of dedicated services for fathers.

To ensure the right approach, the Early Attachment Service, the Anna Freud Centre, and Dad Matters UK supported the development of the Dad Matters St Helens so that it provides data-driven, evidence-based support for dads, with resources from respected organisations such as the NHS, Dr. Anna Machin, Samaritans, ICON, and CRY-SIS.

The programme is available to expectant dads and male carers and those with children up to two years old.

Local fathers and male carers can benefit from one-to-one, targeted support, tailored to their specific needs, available through self or professional referral, helping to improve:

• Attachment and bonding between dads and their children.
• Mental health and wellbeing for fathers.
• Access to services that support dads' unique needs.

Through a proactive approach support is offered in locations where expectant parents and carers attend, such as Whiston Hospital Scan Clinics, Lowe House Resource Centre, Meet the Midwife sessions, and St Helens Family Hubs.

Funded by the UK Government through St Helens Borough Council's Family Hubs, Dad Matters St Helens will deliver tailored support as part of Home-Start St Helens. The programme will also recruit volunteers to assist in facilitating workshops and other services, ensuring widespread access for dads and male carers in the area.

Ruth du Plessis, St Helens Borough Council's Director of Public Health, said:

"Dad Matters St Helens invites fathers and male carers to join this vital initiative. Whether you're looking for support or want to make a difference in the lives of dads and their families, the programme offers an inclusive, community-driven solution. Together, we can create a stronger support network for dads and their families."

Home-Start St Helens is a local organisation dedicated to supporting families and children. Through initiatives like Dad Matters St Helens, the organisation continues to champion the wellbeing and development of parents and children across the community in partnership with St Helens Borough Council.

Dads can easily self-refer to Dad Matters St Helens through the Home-Start website at https://home-starthost.org.uk/dad-matters or by contacting Jay (Dad Matters Co-ordinator) direct on 07398 024387.