Push for Paternity Leave

Join us in Manchester for Push for Paternity Leave, a family friendly walk calling for better paternity leave and more equal parenting from day one.

Hosted by Walking Mum’s Club as part of a national day of action ahead of Equal Parenting Week, this peaceful walk brings parents together to raise awareness of how the UK’s parental leave system impacts families.

While we’re especially encouraging dads, father figures and non birthing parents to come with prams, this walk is for everyone.

Mums, dads, co parents, carers, grandparents and supporters are all welcome, whether your children are babies, teens or all grown up.

This is a relaxed, inclusive community walk followed by short speeches and time to connect with other families.

Why now?

Families across the UK are struggling with unequal care loads, limited flexible working and one of the least supportive parental leave systems in Europe.

• Mothers do around 60% more unpaid childcare and lose an average of £65,000 within five years of their first child
• 88% of the gender pay gap is linked to the motherhood penalty
• 1 in 5 dads take no paternity leave at all, often because they cannot afford to

This is not about individual choices. It is about systems and workplace cultures that make shared care harder for families.

The Government is currently undertaking a parental leave review which concludes in early 2027, making this a key moment to push for change.

The campaign is calling for paternity leave to increase to six weeks paid at 90% of salary, helping families share care more equally from the start.

What to expect

• A gentle family friendly walk around Alexandra Park
• Short speeches from parents and local voices
• Photo and media moments
• Time to connect afterwards

Bring your prams, babies, children and allies. Let’s show Manchester believes in equal parenting.

Practical Information

• We will meet outside Bembe Café in Alexandra Park before setting off for the walk.
• The walk will be gentle and suitable for prams.
• Toilet facilities and baby changing are available.
• Please dress for the weather and bring anything you need for little ones.

Push for Paternity Leave is brought to you nationally by Equal Parenting Week, Parenting Out Loud and Growth Spurt, with support from organisations championing better outcomes for parents and families across the UK.

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Host or Publisher Walking Mums Club CIC