INCLUDING NEW FATHERS: a guide for maternity professionals is designed to help maternity professionals develop a more responsive approach to fathers – and, through this, to the whole family.

Fifty years ago few fathers in Britain witnessed their baby’s birth. Now 86% of all dads attend: 95% of those who live with their baby’s mother; and 45% of those who don’t. No health or family service other than maternity achieves remotely this level of connection with men in their role as carers of children.

What's more, engaging with fathers can help health professionals meet key targets around smoking, breastfeeding and mental health. A compelling body of evidence demonstrates the interdependence of mothers’ and fathers’ behaviour in these and other areas; and the necessity of addressing the father’s beliefs and behaviour if the mother is to succeed in making healthy choices.

The Fatherhood Institute (formerly Fathers Direct) based this document on an extensive review of international evidence. INCLUDING NEW FATHERS: a guide for maternity professionals is a compelling document which brings together the ‘why’ and the ‘how’ of working with fathers, in families making the transition to parenthood.

To buy this publication in hard copy or pay by BACS or cheque or request an invoice, send your order to our administration team at mail@fatherhoodinstitute.org or call them on 0845 634 1328