Project helps dads talk to children

The scheme, 'Who's a Daddy', based in Bridgend, Wales, was begun by speech and language therapist Rebecca Jones. She said she was concerned that while mothers become informed through their involvement in health and education activities with their child, fathers are largely untargeted.

Mrs Jones said, 'Research shows that most fathers work more when children are born, to provide better financial stability. So, even if they are willing, dads often miss out and don't get an opportunity to become involved. That was what got me into making workplace visits, which did really well once they realised we weren't the Child Support Agency!'

Leaflets about the scheme have been distributed at road-show-style visits to workplace sites, and posters on the sides of buses will spread the word ahead of the official launch on 7 March.

The leaflets recommend everyday ways for fathers to engage with their children up to the age of 16, such as looking into a baby's eyes so they will link a voice with a face, and holding discussions while washing the car with under-fives. Mrs Jones said that the campaign was about accessing and acknowledging a father's willingness to be involved as much as about giving out advice.

New leaflets have now built on the originals by incorporating pictures and comments from local fathers who were reached by the first stage of the campaign. 'Spending time together, just talking and listening, costs nothing, yet it means so much to the children,' said one father, Paul Champion.

Local sport celebrities - rugby player Martyn Williams, cricketer Robert Croft and snooker player Ryan Day - are also supporting the campaign.

More information is available by e-mailing rebecca.jones@bromor-tr.wales.nhs.uk.