Why right now is the time to show your support for men and dads in the workplace!
Each year, International Men’s Day (IMD) is marked on 19 November. It’s a call to action for employers to not only raise awareness, but to take meaningful steps to support male staff. From recognising men’s contributions to addressing challenges like burnout, role expectations, and loneliness—this is a moment for action.
We asked our Dads Coach, Ian Dinwiddy, to share his thoughts on the current challenges facing working fathers, and what employers can do to lead the way.
How are today’s dads redefining fatherhood and success at work?
Ian: A new generation of dads wants to “have it all”, to be a great dad without sacrificing a great career. Research suggests they are prepared to make career changes to achieve this and to be the type of father they don’t remember growing up, a presence in their children’s lives.
Are stereotypes still impacting on men as well as women?
Ian: There remains a strong societal bias towards traditional roles – male breadwinner and female carer. More men are leaning towards utilising flexible working to build different working patterns, ones that see work life balance not just as a “perk for mums”, with the damaging connotations for women’s progression, but embedded and integrated into a more sustainable, equal and person friendly society.
What’s stopping men from having a good work-life balance? or stopping dads being supported at work?
Ian: Often, it’s a simple as believing that no one else wants the same thing; not asking for what they need; fear of being seen as “uncommitted”; following traditional stereotypes without pausing to consider and talking openly about what they and their families actually want.
What impact does a poor work-life balance, or lack of support for dads in the workplace have on men and their families?
Ian: Mental health issues including excessive stress and burn out. Inequality at home, which prevents women returning to or giving their all at work because they are taking on the majority of the mental load and “second shift”.
What are the wider benefits to treating all parents equally – in terms of retention, mental health and productivity?
Ian: A move away from “perks for mums” means we are no longer able to discount women’s contribution (or future contribution), because of expectations about the role of men and women at home and in the workplace. Ensuring there is support for dads in the workplace means that men gain the mental health benefits of not being sole breadwinners and become more connected with their children, gaining skills, confidence and a track record of childcare ability that insulates them from post-separation lack of access.
What employers can do this International Men’s Day
International Men’s Day offers a meaningful platform for organisations to support the wellbeing of their male employees, not just symbolically, but practically.
Whether it’s through awareness events, coaching support, wellbeing resources or family networks, this is a chance to shift the narrative and show that men’s needs and experiences are part of the inclusion agenda too.
Mark Brooks OBE, National Ambassador for International Men’s Day UK, says:
“International Men’s Day has really taken off in the last few years as a way for organisations to support their male employees and show their appreciation for what they contribute. Many use it to help them with their wellbeing, support the community by fundraising for charities and to underpin their EDI work. It is a really inclusive platform so everyone in organisations can get involved.
With the increasing focus on issues such as mental health and wellbeing, male cancers, workplace safety, education/skills and fatherhood, International Men’s Day is a perfect time for organisations to demonstrate their wider commitment to their male staff.”
Supporting dads at work isn’t just good for individuals, it’s good for business.
At Parent & Professional, we partner with organisations to ensure fathers feel just as supported, valued, and included throughout their journey as parents.
When dads are supported to show up fully in both roles, everyone benefits: teams become more balanced, parents share the load more equally, and workplace culture shifts.
We offer a range of support, including:
➡️ 1:1 coaching programmes for dads – tailored, confidential support to help dads balance fatherhood and career with confidence.
➡️ Webinars and workshops – engaging sessions that raise awareness, spark reflection and inclusive conversations across your workforce.
- Read this coachee’s story: How 1:1 coaching helped me balance fatherhood and my career
- See how one employer leads the way: Case Study: Sidley supports working dads
If you’re planning your activity for International Men’s Day or looking to embed lasting support for dads in your workplace, we’d love to help.
👉 Get in touch with us here to explore coaching, workshops or a bespoke programme tailored to your organisation’s needs.