Supporting New Fathers at Buttercross Health Centre

What are we trying to do:

  • We want to give all new Fathers the support and resources they need to be amazing Dads
  • We provide you with a confidential, one to one opportunity to discuss anything you want to about being a Dad
  • If you are struggling with your physical or mental health, finances, housing, relationship difficulties or anything else, we want to explore this with you and help you find the right support
  • We have some great resources about bonding with your baby, coping with crying and safe sleeping for you baby that will be useful to all men
  • If you want some additional help we can link up with other professionals such as the midwives, health visitors, GPs and other health agencies to make sure you get this.
  • Any professional working with a family in Somerset can ask for this appointment or you can ask yourself but contacting us on Anima or ringing reception. Ask for a “New Dad’s Support” appointment. You can come before or after your baby is born, whatever suits you best.
  • We know Mum’s rightly get a lot of support through their pregnancy and after the baby is born, we are trying to make sure Dads get support too. Support that is right for you and dedicated to Dads

 

Did you know?

  • Skin to skin contact between Dad and baby benefits both of you. Studies have shown that babies who had skin to skin contact shortly after caesarean births with Dad had more stable heart rate, cried less and fed better. Dads had less anxiety and depression.
  • Sharing books with your child, even from a very early age has real benefits. Infants are better at managing their feelings, behaviour and relationships if someone reads to them regularly – this is a great activity for Dads and is supported by “Bookstart” and “library time”. Babies can’t read, so even if you can’t either they still enjoy sharing picture books and hearing you talk about them.
  • Playing and singing helps with bonding and brain development. Look, Say, Sing, Play – Brain-building tips | NSPCC
  • We are building some great resources to support Dad’s in Somerset such as: