This episode looks at the stresses and strains that having a newborn on a neonatal unit can have on Dads and non-birthing partners.

We speak to Becky and Dan. When they had baby Alf, he went to neonatal, Becky was very unwell and so was taken to the postnatal ward and Dan was rushing around between the two, trying to be everywhere at once. From feelings of helplessness, struggles with bonding and generally feeling completely overwhelmed - these emotions are really common.

In Leeds, at both St James' hospital and the LGI, support is available especially for Dads and non-birthing partners from Dad Matters. Dad Matters has local organisations all over the country and exists to support Dads and partners in the first 1001 days of their parenting journey. It’s looked after by the Leeds Home Start team and its Dad Matters coordinator is Darren O’Donovan…

If you'd like to find out more about the support available to you, you can find out more information about Dad Matters Leeds and Home Start Leeds here. You can also contact your GP, midwife and/or health visitor.

There are also some charitable organisations that can be really helpful including

• Bliss – they offer advice for parents of premature and sick babies, including looking after your mental health
• Mind – for better mental health

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Views and experiences shared in this podcast belong to the individuals, shared in the interests of helping others and do not constitute medical advice. For medical advice please contact your GP, midwife, health visitor, local Maternity Assessment Unit or 111. In an emergency please dial 999.

This podcast was made with Leeds Children’s hospitaland funded by Leeds Hospital’s Charity.

This podcast was recorded and produced by Under the Mast– creative audio productions. and was presented byCaroline Verdon and Kerry McCarthy