Fathers Network Scotland Publishes Dads’ Survey Report 2023

That the Parliament acknowledges the publication of the Dads’ Survey Report 2023 from Fathers Network Scotland; understands that the survey received answers from over 1,000 fathers from May to June 2023; notes the report's finding that fathers are spending more time with their children than ever before, with nearly half of all respondents to the survey spending 25 or more hours per week playing or supporting their children’s learning; further notes with concern that the report states that fathers are finding it tough to strike a balance between being a provider and caring for their children during the cost of living crisis, with many fathers acknowledging that their work/life balance was proving difficult; believes that the survey results suggest that many employers are not keeping pace with societal changes regarding the support of dads’ childcare obligations, as a quarter of respondents noted that their employers were not supportive of employee flexibility with regard to childcare obligations; is concerned that the survey suggests that the number of fathers experiencing very poor mental health has almost doubled within the last year; believes that increased promotion of mental health support is necessary, in light of the survey results indicating that, of the 24 most popular mental health services in Scotland, 90% of fathers were not aware of three quarters of them; believes that it is crucial that both parents are treated as equal caregivers by services in order to ensure the best outcomes for children; calls on employers to develop a positive culture and family-friendly, flexible workplace policies to support all those with childcare responsibilities; agrees with the report's assertion that the Scottish Government must continue to support families that are most in need to reduce financial stress, and congratulates Cathy Sexton of Fathers Network Scotland, Joanna Wilson of The University of Manchester, and Jessica Moran of the University of Glasgow on what it sees as their diligent work and effort in publishing the report.