New Dads need support at work too
It is becoming more and more evident now that it is not just new mums who need support at work during the period of maternity and returning to work. According to The Family and Parenting Institute, half of men say they are not spending enough time with their children and at home.
In addition to this shift in family policy, which emphasises the need for fathers to be more involved in the upbringing of their children, the UK economic situation is changing. With more women returning to work now, many families are finding they have to share the juggling act of drop off and pick up times to nursery and school as well as sharing the role of who stays at home when a child is ill. Not only this, but as divorce rates have risen, many fathers are less able to rely on mothers to be the primary carer for their children, especially when they are also working.
Based on a survey we carried out this month to working dads, 85% of respondents expressed a desire for more flexible working arrangements in the early months of having a baby, as well as a chance to review and change their work/life balance.
One dad said ‘being a man can sometimes put you in and awkward position, as an employer does not want to hear about child care issues, as this is considered to only affect women. In the 21st Century this is no longer the case and although I don’t do as much as my wife, I’d like to be able to support her more.’
Parenting for Professionals is currently working with one client to develop a support workshop for new dads. We aim to recognise and support the needs of new dads at work, by offering a practical session that enables ‘expectant’ and new dads the opportunity to ask questions and discuss any areas of concern.