Are UK dads being set up to fail before they even start?

In this episode of The Meaning of Men we're joined by Alex Lloyd Hunter, co-founder of The Dad Shift, explore the urgent need for better paternity leave in the UK.

Alex reveals the far-reaching consequences of our outdated system—from damaging mental health in both parents, to deepening gender inequality, and denying fathers the chance to build strong, lasting bonds with their children.

We discuss how other countries across Europe are proving the benefits of generous, well-paid leave, the ripple effects of early father involvement on children’s development, and why changing the first weeks of parenthood could transform relationships, families, and even the economy.

If you’re a dad, partner, employer, or simply someone who cares about a more equal and human future—this episode is one you won’t want to miss.

Hear more from The Dad Shift:

https://action.dadshift.org.uk/a/back-better-paternity-leave??utm_source=&utm_medium=&utm_campaign=12-08-25-podcast-MoM

Timestamps

03:06: The Birth of The Dad Shift 06:15: Paternity Leave: A Comparative Analysis 09:39: Success Stories from Abroad 10:32: The Ripple Effects of Paternity Leave 14:24: Facing Resistance to Change 17:59: The Importance of Fathers 20:20: Benefits of Paternity Leave 23:15: The Evolving Role of Fathers 24:37: The Importance of Bonding and Relationships 26:41: Postnatal Depression and Its Impact on Fathers 29:31: The Pressure of Returning to Work 31:53: Presence vs. Attendance in Parenting 34:52: Workplace Support for Paternity Leave 38:20: The Dad Shift Campaign and Future Goals