Parenting is challenging but there’s free help out there for new and existing dads across the city – DadPad®.

As part of the Wolverhampton Family Hubs programme, City of Wolverhampton Council offer support for fathers via DadPad®, a free app developed with the NHS.

A wide range of topics are covered on the app to help dads including advice and guidance on becoming a dad, what to expect and how dads can support themselves, their partner and their baby as well as details on local support groups and service providers. There’s also tips on feeding, holding, changing and cleaning your baby, dealing with broken nights, coping with persistent crying and supporting partners.

Cllr Jasbir Jaspal, Adults and Wellbeing, said: “I am delighted that we can provide such great support for new dads and dads-to-be as part of ongoing work on increasing the involvement of fathers in a child’s early years.

“This app provides targeted guidance on how to support and seek help when needed, for their partners and themselves, as they adjust to their new roles as parents at what can be an exciting but pressurised time so that they are able to cope with the physical and emotional strains that a new baby can place on individuals and relationships.”

Cllr Jacqui Coogan, Children, Young People and Education, added: “DadPad® is a very welcome addition to the help we have available and not only assists dads through the journey of becoming a parent, but will also give babies and their families the best start in life, providing new fathers with guidance on how to develop skills.

“Building a strong attachment with their babies will not only enable dads to better enjoy their new role but also contribute towards positive long-term social, health and educational outcomes for their babies.”

City of Wolverhampton Council has worked with a range of partners across The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust, Wolves Foundation and other local voluntary groups to develop the localised version of the app.

New and existing fathers in the city are now able to download our local DadPad® app for free when registering with their Wolverhampton postcode. Printed versions of DadPad® are available from midwives, health visitors and in all libraries and Family Hubs across the city.

To find out more about DadPad®, visit: https://thedadpad.co.uk/

To download the app for free from the App Store or Google Play, go to: https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/thedadpad/id6444346759 or

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.dadpad

For more information about other support available for all parents, contact your local Family Hub: https://www.wolverhampton.gov.uk/health-and-social-care/children-social-care/family-hubs