A boy's hand thrust forward towards the camera

Building relationships and connecting with fathers and male carers

Resources for building relationships and connecting with fathers and male carers

Find resources to help build relationships and connect with fathers and male carers.

You can find support from:

  • Raise York
  • Family Information Service
  • Family Matters York - are here to support, equip and to encourage you to make small steps to change in your family relationships
  • Menfulness - we bring men together to socialise, exercise, enjoy themselves, talk and let off steam in a non-judging, friendly and supportive environment. These are all essential for wellbeing and health, both physical and mental
  • Parenthood Dads Group - social group open to dads, babies and toddlers. Tuesday's from 1.00pm to 2.00pm in room G11, York St John University
  • Parenthood Online Dads Group - Online dad’s group. Social group open to fathers and father and babies. Every Thursday from 7.30pm to 8.30pm on ZOOM. Meeting ID: 873 4393 9324 Passcode: r4BZpL
  • Yorkey Dads Hair School - Yorkey Dads, Menfulness and Pretty Plaits are absolutely delighted to announce we are back with now our world famous hair school. Its on the last Sunday of every month in the Community Room at Askham Bar TESCO, 10.30am. Booking is essential. Please don't book for your child and you. You only need to book for the dad who is coming. Book for the Yorkey Dads Hair School. You can donate £5 to menfulness. However, if you can't do this please pay the tutor on the day
  • Andy Man’s Clubs - are a men’s suicide prevention charity, offering free-to-attend peer-to-peer support groups across the United Kingdom and online. We want to end the stigma surrounding men’s mental health and help men through the power of conversation. #ITSOKAYTOTALK
  • Babies and Pregnancy Partnership webpage
  • Partnership Engaging with Fathers One Minute Guide

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Here are some examples of good practice and advice from our partners:

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Watch the following videos, podcasts and TED Talks:

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When we talk about perinatal mental health, the focus often falls on mothers, but fathers can face significant challenges too. Research shows that at least 1 in 10 men experience mental health problems around the time of birth, and suicide remains the leading cause of death in men under 50. Despite this, many new dads feel overlooked by services, which can make it harder for them to seek help when they’re struggling.

Healthcare professionals – midwives, health visitors, and others – have unique opportunities to identify concerns early and offer timely support. Asking fathers how they are, addressing intrusive thoughts, and considering cultural and social support networks can make a real difference.

About the Film: “Invisible”

Invisible is a short film that follows Luke’s journey as he becomes a dad to baby Josh. This is a dramatised version of events, developed from extensive interviews with a diverse range of fathers and based on research findings. The film aims to highlight factors that may impact new dads’ mental health and spark discussion around parenting roles, inclusion of fathers, and the importance of support.

Please note: the film covers sensitive topics, including mental health and addiction. You may find some scenes upsetting, particularly if you have been affected by any of the issues raised. You're free to stop watching at any time. If you need support:

Watch the Fathers’ Perinatal Mental Health – “Invisible” film.

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Find further research:

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