Young Wrexham

Being a Dad

Being a dad is one of the most rewarding things but with it comes huge responsibility.

In today’s society, more is expected of fathers than ever before and their roles in the family are changing.

• A few decades ago, a father’s main responsibility was seen as being the main provider but times have changed and more and more dads are now sharing the responsibility of bringing up their children and looking after the home
• By getting involved with your children, you’ll develop a stronger bond. Set aside time each day to play with them, read together, help them with homework or go swimming, for example
• Managing your working life and time with your family can be difficult but it can be done. Don’t use your working hours as an excuse not to spend time with your children – make time
• Your children will look to you as their most important male role model and will copy your behaviour. Be respectful and sensitive and they will follow your lead

Changing family roles

Family roles have changed over the past few decades and it is not unusual for women to return to work on a full or part-time basis after having children.

• Working hours in the UK can be long and it is important that you and your partner strike a balance between your jobs. Remember, she is as entitled to work as you are
• A new breed of father is the full-time dad. Although this is still relatively rare, there are many fathers who choose to stay at home and look after the children, while their partner goes to work
• For more information about what to expect as a new dad, please see Being a Parent - Babies

Living away from your children

Unfortunately, not all relationships work and many fathers find themselves living separately from their children.

• This can be very difficult but it is important that you and your partner put your differences aside and maintain contact with your children
• Try and arrange visits in advance and stick to your plans
• Being a dad doesn’t change because you don’t live with your children and it will be more important than ever to be a loving and supportive parent for them
• If you are getting divorced, put the children first and try and reach an amicable and fair decision about your access to them. Never discuss this in front of them
• If you are unmarried and split up from your partner and your child’s birth is also registered in your name, you now have similar legal rights as a married partner
• Access to children can become an issue during a break-up. It is always in everyone’s interest to reach a fair decision out of court, but if one can’t be made, seek expert legal advice and know your rights

Paternity leave and pay

Fathers have the right to two weeks paid paternity leave or up to 26 weeks paid additional paternity leave if the mother chooses to return to work.

For more information about eligibility for paternity leave please go to: https://www.gov.uk/paternity-pay-leave/eligibility