The health-led Early Years Lifecheck for Fathers is to be rolled out inSure Start children's centres, following criticism from some parentsthat the existing Early Years Lifecheck is 'too mumsy'.
Speaking at 4Children's annual conference last week, children'ssecretary Ed Balls said that the new 'information card' would helpsupport fathers during the first few weeks after birth and help keepthem involved in their child's life.
He said that fathers are often neglected before and after their child'sbirth, particularly during hospital antenatal appointments when oftenthey are not addressed by name.
Mr Balls also announced that a new handbook for fathers will be includedin the Bounty Packs of free samples and information given out to newmothers.
One half of a reversible handbook called Baby's Here has been designedespecially for fathers. It was created by the DCSF programme Parent KnowHow and launched on 1 April.
The handbook features targeted information for fathers on postnataldepression, additional needs and disabilities, safety advice and tips onhow fathers can bond with their baby.