New Dads' Supporter Programme

In Somerset, we want to make sure that all new dads and non-birthing partners are supported so that everyone can get the advice and guidance they need to enjoy parenthood.

Why does supporting new dads matter?

In Somerset, we believe that all men should be able to access the support and advice they need to be great dads. Men across the UK have told us that services available during the periods before and immediately after birth do not regularly, significantly or substantially involve fathers, leaving many to feel ignored. In Somerset we want to change this, we want to make sure that all new dads and non-birthing partners are supported so that everyone can get the advice and guidance they need to enjoy parenthood.

From money worries to physical or mental health concerns or addiction – lots of things can have an impact. Welcoming a new baby is a good moment to make positive changes and we will work alongside men to support with any issues they want to address. We can provide advice about things like bonding with your baby, coping with crying and safe sleep.

These are all important things that can help you feel more confident as a parent. There are also some great resources in Somerset specifically for dads and we can signpost men to these.

Men will be able to lead the conversation and discuss whatever is important, we then aim to create a personalised plan of support or maybe just signpost to the most appropriate resource, whatever is required.

The New Dads’ Supporter Programme was created to help shift the focus from almost exclusively supporting mothers to a more balanced situation that recognises the important role that dads play in their children’s lives. We know that when dads are happy and have a strong bond to their child that they have better mental and physical health, are more likely to be in employment and live longer, and there are really positive outcomes for mum and baby. So everyone benefits.

New dads wishing to access support can request this through their local GP by asking for a “New Dads’ Supporter Conversation”, or they can ask another professional working with them to help by writing to their GP making the same request. The service is available to everyone who is either expecting to become a father or has recently become one.

We currently have staff trained in 10 of the 12 Primary Care Networks across the county and 40% of GP practices and further training is being rolled out across more areas. While not all practices have undertaken the training yet, all can provide advice and support if someone is worried. The GP practices outlined at the bottom of this page have now received training to better support new dads.

So, if you are a new dad and would like some support, please speak to your local GP practice or health visiting team and ask them for a conversation.

GP practices that have taken part in the training so far include: