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Motion · S6M-16723 · 5 Mar 2025

Dads' Survey 2024 Report Published

Lodged by Fulton MacGregor (Scottish National Party) Standard Motion 19 supporters

The motion

That the Parliament acknowledges the results of the 2024 Dads' Survey, which was run by Fathers Network Scotland (FNS); notes that this is the sixth Dads’ Survey to be run by FNS; understands that the survey received over 400 responses, which expressed the needs and concerns of fathers and families across Scotland; acknowledges that the survey found that fathers remain committed to positive engagement with their children and families post-COVID-19, despite increased financial pressure; notes with concern, however, that the survey indicated that poor mental health is at a record high, and that fewer fathers than ever are seeking support; further notes with concern that many more dads are reportedly struggling to balance work and family life, particularly new dads and dads on the edge of poverty; believes that it is crucial that both parents are treated as equal caregivers by services, to ensure the best outcomes for children; asserts that parental leave should be affordable for parents to take, give a substantial allowance of time, and support equality among parents; supports the calls for increased support for the whole family around every child, and the services that assist them; praises the work of FNS and, in particular, its director, Cathy Sexton, whose work on this topic is, it considers, vital for advising policy, and believes that surveys and reports such as the 2024 Dads’ Survey are invaluable in shedding light on how escalating pressures on families are affecting fathers across Scotland.

Supporters (19)

Source: the Scottish Parliament motions and amendments record.