SMS4DeadlyDads supports First Nations Fathers
The text-support service for dads – SMS4Dads – is expanding to support First Nations fathers facing pregnancy loss, stillbirth or neonatal death, as well as providing information for soon-to-be Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander dads.
Messages linked to resources have been co-designed with First Nations fathers with lived experience, led by Uncle Mick Adams, Craig ‘Bourkie’ Hammond, Indigenous Engagement & Dave Edwards, Indigenous Resource Manager, and an Aboriginal Advisory Group representing dads from around Australia.
SMS4Deadly Dads will provide tips and information especially for Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander dads, sent straight to their phones.
SMS4DeadlyDads was designed especially for soon-to-be and new Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander dads with a baby under 12 months of age.
The SMS texts provide information and links that are relevant to a baby’s development. They are positive messages of support and encouragement and help dads understand the importance of their role.
Three messages each week are sent to dads from 12 weeks into a pregnancy up until their child turns one.
The content of the messages is based around three themes:
- Bonding with the baby
- Supporting a partner
- Taking care of the father’s mental health and accessing support if needed.
“Sometimes we get into busy mode, you know like… ‘Oh, I’ve got to do this, I’ve got to do that,’ and da, da, da.. The messages are a reminder– to slow down and focus on what’s important. Once I’ve focused on those things, I’m able to best support my family,” said one father.
Blokes can sign up online by entering their mobile number and their baby’s due or actual date of birth.
For more information about how SMS4DeadlyDads works and for free Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander printed resources promoting SMS4DeadlyDads go to www.SMS4DeadlyDads.com
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New online course for First Nations Fathers (September 2022, AMHF)