Becoming a father can be a challenging time and while most families experience a smooth run, there can be difficulties. This resource provides a guide to the ups and downs of becoming a father. "DadsWA aims to raise the profile of post-natal depression in new fathers..."While a great deal of emphasis is placed in managing the wellbeing of mothers after birth of their child, there is less emphasis given to what fathers need. NGALA is a program based in Western Australia that helps up to 40,000 families a year to access help with children, advice and access to professionals.
The DadsWA program is embedded into the organisational culture of NGALA and so provides a good, working example of a service where male-friendliness is part of the culture.
NGALA describes the major objectives of DadsWA as "to work in close consultation and collaboration with other organisations to:
- Build a collective understanding of the unique and valued position of men in family life;
- Encourage agencies to be more inclusive of men within the ambit of their services; and
- Promote collaborative planning and partnerships around research and service provision to families with a particular focus on fatherhood issues.
Men and Post-Natal Depression
NGALA has collaborated with Beyond Blue to raise the profile of post-natal depression in new fathers through the DadsWA booklet and through media coverage.
Whether it arises through coping with a depressed partner or by having depression themselves, the increased focus on depression helps families through difficult times.
Resources Available
The Dads Booklet: Fatherhood For The First Twelve Months -2.51 MB
The role of dads has changed greatly in our society with many fathers now taking a more active and caring role in the raising of their children. There is widespread support among researchers, policy makers and community members, for fathers increased involvement in children's lives.
Related Links
Contact Information
|
NGALA 9 George Street Kensington, Western Australia 6151 AustraliaTelephone: +61 8 9368 9368 Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. |