What Do New Dads Need to Hear to Access Coaching Support?

As a Maternity Return Coach, I’ve seen first-hand how coaching can be a game-changer for new parents navigating the transition back to work. The process is usually straightforward: I partner with HR, an offer is made to new mums preparing to return, they book a chemistry call, and we identify key topics to explore. The take-up rate? Around 98%.

Recently, more organisations have started offering the same support to new dads - a brilliant and progressive step. But here’s the challenge: the take-up rate is significantly lower.

And yet, the research is clear - new dads need support too. They face identity shifts, emotional upheaval, relationship changes, and the pressure of balancing work and home life. So why aren’t they accessing coaching at the same rate as mums?

That’s the question I’m exploring this year. What do men need to hear to feel that it’s okay - even beneficial—to take up the support that’s available?

Here’s where I’ve landed so far, and if you’re a new dad or manage someone who is, I’d love to hear your thoughts.

1. Becoming a dad is a pivotal moment - feeling overwhelmed is normal.

Becoming a parent changes everything. It shifts identity, adds new responsibilities, and alters relationships. Many dads feel pressure to "hold it all together" while internally struggling with exhaustion, guilt, or uncertainty.

Coaching offers a confidential space to process these feelings, normalise the experience, and build strategies for managing both work and home life.

2. Balancing work & fatherhood is a challenge - and it’s okay to talk about it.

For new mums, work-life balance is a frequent coaching topic. But for dads? The assumption is often that they’ll just get on with it—because that’s what “strong” men do.

Yet, the reality is that dads, too, face tough choices: How do I set boundaries? Can I take parental leave without career repercussions? How do I stay present at home without sacrificing my ambitions?

Coaching helps dads navigate these questions, set boundaries with confidence, and find sustainable ways to balance work and family life.

3. Success might look different—and that’s not a bad thing.

Fatherhood shifts priorities. The things that once defined success—long hours, constant availability, career-first thinking—might not fit anymore. But that doesn’t mean ambition disappears; it just evolves.

Coaching helps dads redefine success in a way that aligns with their values and stage of life, so they don’t feel torn between professional growth and family commitments.

4. Your workplace is a safe place and there are others who need the same things as you – it’s just that no-ones talking about.  

Many dads worry about how they’ll be perceived if they ask for flexible work or take shared parental leave. Will it be seen as a lack of commitment? Will it impact career progression?

Organisations play a critical role in shaping the narrative. Coaching helps dads advocate for themselves while also equipping HR and leaders with the insights to foster an inclusive culture where men feel just as supported as women in their parenting journey.

5. Accepting support is not a sign of weakness – it’s a sign of strength and it also gives others permission to do the same.

Many men hesitate to seek support because it feels like admitting they’re struggling. But coaching isn’t about fixing problems—it’s about building confidence, resilience, and leadership skills that benefit both work and home life.

By positioning coaching as a proactive tool for personal and professional growth, rather than a remedial intervention, organisations can encourage more dads to engage—and ultimately, create a workplace where everyone thrives.

What’s Next?

If you’re an HR leader or team manager, this is your opportunity to reflect:

• Are the new dads in your organisation accessing support? If not, why?

• How can you create a culture where it feels safe for men to say “yes” to coaching?

• What small shifts could you make to ensure dads feel valued—not just as employees, but as parents, too?

  
  

I’d love to hear your thoughts. If you’re looking for ways to better support new dads in your organisation, let’s talk.

👉  Get in touch: lauraduggal@outlook.com