STEVEN CAMLEY'S baby box cartoon (The Herald, August 15) showing the family crowding round the baby box rather than the new-born child touches on a serious point as well. The birth of a child doesn't always bring undiluted joy to the parents.
As we know from many inquiries to the Families Need Fathers Scotland helpline, the sleepless nights, the new roles and sometimes the onset of post-natal depression can drive a wedge through the new family.
Fathers seek our advice when their contact with the new baby is stopped or severely restricted or their name is not included on the birth certificate. They are unsure of their rights in such a situation yet want to become fully involved.
Even if most of the contents of the baby box are designed to help mothers and fathers celebrate and enjoy the new arrival, it should also include information about what to do if the relationship is under strain and sources of further support.
Ian Maxwell,
National Manager, Families Need Fathers Scotland/Both Parents Matter,
10 Palmerston Place, Edinburgh.
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