Why young dads matter...and how to reach them.

Most maternity services address themselves squarely to mothers, but evidence suggests that engaging with fathers can be an important way of achieving better outcomes, both for children and their mothers. This article debunks some of the commonly heard myths about young fathers (for example that they are not 'around' or interested in fatherhood), summarises key aspects of their importance and suggests approaches which maternity professionals might find useful when trying to engage with them.