Creating Confident, Connected Dads

Story of Change – Walk Leader Training with Dad Matters

At Active Calderdale, we're proud to support organisations like Dad Matters, who are transforming the perinatal journey for fathers by building stronger, more supported communities. One of the innovative ways they do this is through their Walk n Talk programme - a simple yet powerful concept: dads connecting with dads through walking.

We caught up with Matt, a Dad Matters coordinator who recently completed our Walk Leader Training, to hear how it’s impacted his work, his confidence, and, most importantly, the dads he supports.

Why did you want to lead a walk?

“At Dad Matters, one of the things that we provide as a universal offer to all dads is a Walk n Talk. These are walks, which are open to everyone, give dads the opportunity to meet other dads at similar stages of parenthood and in a similar area, who can relate to each other and provide a platform for peer support. We also then get the opportunity as coordinators to provide support where necessary and appropriate.

I wanted to do the walk leader training to be in a more informed, prepared position to run these walks safely and responsibly.”

Did training provide you with the skills and knowledge you needed?

“Yes, thanks to the training, I felt prepared with the skills and knowledge to be able to lead the walk. It gave me the confidence to run them and the awareness of how to prepare and react for different circumstances.”

How Many Walks Have You Led Since Training and how many dads join you?

“So far, I’ve led six Walk n Talks. There can be quite a variety in the numbers who turn up. This is hard to pinpoint the exact reason, but it could be related to the weather. Also, as most dads are working a 9-5, Monday to Friday work pattern, they often have other commitments which must take priority on the weekends. On a good day, there can be around 10 participants, but it is rare to get more.”

What Feedback Have You Had?

“All the feedback received has been positive. Dads generally comment on the relaxed, friendly atmosphere and the chance to meet other dads at a similar stage of life. Many of the dads find that they are at different stages to other men in their friendship groups, so they find solace in communicating with others who can relate.”

More about Dads Matter in Calderdale

Dad Matters support dads during the perinatal period—from conception to when their child turns two. This aligns with the 1001 Critical Days research, which highlights this time as vital for a child’s brain development and long-term wellbeing.

Babies are born with around 20% of their adult brain capacity, increasing to 80% by age two. What happens during this time shapes their emotional regulation, mental health, and future relationships—largely influenced by early attachments with caregivers.

Research by Home-Start, Dad Matters, and experts like anthropologist Anna Machin shows that dads play a crucial role in this stage. Yet, many feel overlooked by services and unaware of their importance, with most support still focused on mothers and babies.

Dad Matters exists to bridge that gap—offering dads mental health support, advice on bonding and parenting, and guidance when supporting a partner’s mental health. They also signpost to other services where needed.

They continue to work with professionals to make services more father-inclusive, running training to help them better understand dads’ needs, communication styles, and the importance of early father-child attachment.

The Bigger Picture

Walk n Talks are more than just a stroll in the park. They're a space for dads to breathe, speak openly, and build meaningful connections with others. Our Walk Leader Training has allowed Matt to run these sessions confidently and safely - empowering dads at a time when they need it most.

You can follow Dad Matters Calderdale on Facebook.

For more information about our Walk Leader Training, contact - activecalderdale@calderdale.gov.uk