"Why don't we have services for pregnant fathers?" was one of the many questions raised at a packed conference - A Man's Place- in Glasgow organised by Children in Scotland on November 20th.

Becoming a father may not have the same physical symptoms as shown by pregnant women, but pregnancy has just as much impact on men as on women.

Men and women should be recognised as equal partners pre- and post- birth with as much support for men – emotionally, socially, physically – as for women.

Fathers are not ‘optional’ extras - involvement leads to positive long term outcomes including improved relationships; less substance abuse, less incarceration and increased educational attainment.

A number of international studies and reports all call for increased male involvement in care, and parenting, as a result of these measurable results.

The Scottish Government speaker at the conference emphasised that they have a commitment to make policies more “Dad friendly” in the new National Parenting Strategy.  Families Need Fathers Scotland is taking part in the Father's Roundtable meetings to oversee this commitment.