BumpClub Walks brings pregnant people and new parents together for gentle exercise, while sharing stories, experiences, and supporting each other.
Why did Medway Council start BumpClub Walks?
BumpClub Walks was created following our antenatal programme, also called BumpClub.
The idea was to bring service users together, as the original programme was delivered online.
Being pregnant or becoming a new parent can feel very isolating, especially if you don’t have any new mum friends nearby.
BumpClub Walks help reduce social isolation while encouraging fresh air and gentle exercise—beneficial for both mum and baby. New parents share stories, experiences, and support each other along the way.
We try not to let the weather be a barrier! After completing five walks, participants receive a branded mac as a reward, so you’ll find us out in all sorts of weather!
How did you understand what people wanted?
We understand the importance of BumpClub mums having the opportunity to socialise while staying active and enjoying the beautiful walking spots in Medway.
For many, the walk is the highlight of their week. They build wonderful friendships, and even the little ones begin to recognise each other!
How do you promote your activities?
We promote the walks through our A Better Medway Facebook page, and midwives and health visitors can also refer parents to the walks
Impact and feedback
BumpClub Walks is more than just a walk. It's given me so much - new friends that I can't imagine not going through motherhood with, and friends for my son to hopefully grow up with!
Talking has helped me find out more about the local area, is pooing in the bath normal, and everything in between, in a completely non-judgemental way.
It's given me a reason to get out of bed on the days when even the weather tells you to stay indoors ,and confidence that you might not get everything right but you're doing your best and that's okay.
Honestly one of the best things I've done for my son, and I was joining. - so thank you !!!
Motherhood can be an extremely lonely place. BumpClub Walks allows you to meet people who are going through similar experiences. It helps to know you're not going through things alone.
Being able to get some fresh air and speak to other mums provides much needed reassurance and really helps on the tough days. It’s completely non-judgemental and everyone cares about everyone else’s wellbeing, which is so needed in motherhood.
BumpClub Walk has been a great way to be able to become confident in leaving the house with baby! Becoming a mum can be overwhelming but the group has been welcoming and supportive in the transition.
How did you overcome the barriers faced?
The main challenges have been new walkers feeling nervous about joining and, of course, the weather!
When we have a nervous walker, we do our best to make them feel welcome by pairing them with an existing walker who is happy to chat.
As mentioned before, we encourage participants to walk in all kinds of weather and provide BumpClub macs for anyone who needs a waterproof jacket.
You’ll find us out in all sorts of conditions!
What are you plans for the future?
We currently run two walks and have piloted a third. Our aim is to offer a walk every day of the week in various locations across Medway.
We would like to expand and offer more walks by collaborating with local partner organisations.
Top Tip
Our top tip is to encourage partners and organisations to get involved and support your walks.
We often have partners join us, such as mental health services, breastfeeding support, and pelvic health specialists.
Their presence provides extra encouragement for parents to take part and makes the experience even more valuable.
How does BumpClub Walks embody the action area 'Social'.
Our walks bring pregnant and new parents together. Sharing and normalising experiences, in a safe non-judgemental space.