Two social clubs for dads have been launched in Richmond upon Thames within the past month.
Twickenham Dads Club launched on 30 August, while the Dads’ Run Club in St Margarets is set to host its first event this weekend.
Twickenham Dads Club, run by 33-year-old new dad Josh Goddard, organises activities such as walks, workshops, and social gatherings.
Goddard, father of eight-week-old Leo, said: “In the lead-up to Leo’s birth, it was really hard to find specific activities for dads.
“It was hard to connect with local dads and share the fatherhood experience.”
It has hosted two events so far, with the third set to be a walk starting from Eel Pie Island Bridge, at 10am on Sunday 21 September.
Leo’s dad went on regular dog walks in the lead up to his son’s birth, during which time he noticed several fathers in a similar position to him, walking the dog by themselves.
This led to Goddard, who was born in the Isle of Wight but now lives in Twickenham, creating the group which offers dads support, practical tips, and a safe space to grow and thrive.
Goddard, the head of commercial operations at South Bank Students’ Union, initially believed the group would be a “slow burner” but explained it has grown in popularity faster than he thought it would.
The group’s founder is keen to keep the club’s events free.
He said: “We want to make sure it stays really accessible for parents and open to everyone.
“Having a space that is for dads where we can thrive is really, really important.”
Goddard explained that the club has also been beneficial for his wife, Ellie Goddard, as dads are encouraged to bring their children to the events.
He said: “The club provides her time for herself, and some respite when the events are taking place.”
Meanwhile, the Dads’ Run Club in St Margaret’s is overseen by Chris Davies and will offer weekly running events which promise “no pressure, just positive vibes”.
The 36-year-old professional boxer aims to create a space in which men can discuss topics such as baby loss and the challenges of fatherhood.
The father of two-year-old Leo and five-month-old Myla believes men do not talk enough and is now seeking to create a community which allows dads to bond with one another.
Davies said: “I wanted to try to set up a community to bring local dads together.”
Davies, who was born in Essex but has lived in St Margaret’s since the age of 11, wants to help men build a lifestyle which encompasses both their physical and mental health.
Running has long played an important role in the dad-of-two’s life.
He said: “It doesn’t always have to be going down to the pub and having a drink.”
“I’ve always found running an exercise that helps me just clear my head and go into my own world for a little while.”
Davies now takes Leo out in a running buggy, and together they enjoy spotting deer, ducks, cows, and other wildlife.
He said: “It’s a little bonding thing that I do with him.
“He enjoys it, he eats his snacks, and I’m running.”
While only fathers will be present at the first event, Davies added there will be potential for children to attend in the future.
The run club will launch at 9am on Sunday 21 September, meeting at Oneday. Coffee cafe at the foot of Richmond Lock Bridge.
Featured image: Attendees of the Twickenham Dads Club launch, provided by Josh Goddard
Join the discussion