Support for new dads in relaxed atmosphere across the Capes

A support group for fathers with new babies is being trialled in Dunsborough this year as a local counselling service strives to better assist parents in the region.

Dads Assisting Dads was established after a lack of postnatal services for fathers in the Capes was noticed and gives men the opportunity to seek help in a casual atmosphere.

Offered under the umbrella of South West Counselling, which also provides the Mother and Baby Nurture Support Group, the four-week trial is now in its final week.

South West Counselling chief executive Karen Sommerville said the group gave men the opportunity to talk about their feelings as a new parent.

“We started thinking for every mum with a new baby, there is a dad,” she said.

“There is really nothing available, particularly in the South West, where dads can go to access some support.

“We’ve been involved with the mother and baby nurture support group ... for some time now and we wanted to provide something that complemented this service,” she said.

Ms Sommerville said the group also focused on how new fathers could better support their partners in the “life-changing” event.

“For mums and dads, having a baby is a life-changing event that nobody can really be prepared for,” she said.

“Mums and dads can get some really challenging emotions that come with it and they do need support.”

D.A.D is facilitated by local fathers Kane Parsons and Kel Foster and is held every Wednesday at 3pm.

A trial group focused on FIFO parents will be offered later in the year, and an assessment to join the group is available through South West Counselling.