Midlands Partnership NHS Foundation Trust and Stoke-on-Trent City Council have teamed up to launch a new app designed to help expectant and new fathers develop the skills they need to deal with the stress and demands of their new baby’s needs.
The app, named the DadPad, contains all the information new dads will need to complete their transition into parenthood smoothly, whilst also supporting their partner and baby effectively.
The app covers:
- Feeding, holding, changing and cleaning your baby
- Dealing with sleep deprivation and a crying baby
- Building a strong paternal bond with your baby
- Home safety and first aid
- Supporting yourself and your partner
Kate Cox, Head of Universal Services at Midlands Partnership NHS Foundation Trust said: “We are committed to continually improving the maternity experience for families in Stoke-on-Trent so that every child gets the best start in life, so we are delighted to support this fantastic new resource.
“Traditionally, lots of information, advice and support is female-focused, but partners can feel equally unsure or overwhelmed. DadPad is designed to reduce anxiety in a number of ways, for example, by helping dads gain confidence by getting involved with their baby’s care, as well as learning how to create a strong bond and build stronger family relationships. It also provides links to trusted sources of information and advice.
“We expect that it will enable new dads to play an active role in helping improve the health and wellbeing outcomes families in the city.”
Another resource specifically designed for co-parents from the LGBTQ+ community is in development and will available for new and expectant families in Stoke by early next year.
