Photo of lone parent with child

Promoting supportive policies and services for lone parents and their children.

One Parent Families Scotland works to ensure that all families, particularly those headed by a lone parent, have the support, information and confidence needed to play a full part in Scotland's economic and social life.

Have your say

We at One Parent Families Scotland are keen to hear your views on issues affecting you.

Here are the discussions we are currently holding.

Welfare Reform tightens its grip on lone parents

The Westminster government's welfare reform programme is increasing the pressure on lone parents to look for work. From 26th October 2009, lone parents whose youngest child is 10 or over will no longer be able to make a new or repeat claim Income Support as a lone parent.

Escalating Childcare Costs

Do you have trouble paying for your childcare?
The Daycare Trust claim that childcare costs are rising nationally above the rate of inflation with parents paying more than £8,000 per annum.

Free lone parent helpline: 0808 801 0323

We run the Lone Parent Helpline - a free, independent helpline for lone parents and anyone affected by the issues surrounding one parent families.

Freephone 0808 801 0323

www.loneparenthelpline.info

Stay updated

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Stay up to date with the latest news from One Parent Families Scotland by subscribing to our enewsletter.

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News Features and latest news

Employment Support Allowance (ESA) changes - 21st July 2009

Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) is the new benefit paid to people whose ability to work is limited due to ill health or disability. From the 27th of October, 2008 it replaced both Incapacity Benefit (IB) and Income Support (IS), paid on the grounds of incapacity for work.

Looking for Board members in the Central Belt with time available - 20th January 2010

We are currently looking for additional Board members who live in the Central Belt and who are not working full time. Members with knowledge of finance or experience in personnel matters would be particularly welcome. Board meetings are 6 times a year on Thursday afternoons. Anyone interested should contact Sue Robertson at our HQ office.

New Business Development Officer starts - 12th January 2010

Barbara Boertien - Business Development Officer at OPFS

OPFS have a new Business Development Officer in post. Barbara Boertien started with us on 6th January 2010 and will be based in the Choices office in Glasgow. Barbara can be contacted through the Choices office on 0141 847 0444

OPFS looking for a Treasurer - 23rd December 2009

We are looking for a Treasurer to join our Board and to take part in our Finance Sub group. Finance meetings are held early evening in Edinburgh approximately quarterly and Board meetings are held 6 times a year on Thursday afternoons. If you would be interested in helping us, please contact Rachael Gibbins, Finance and Personnel Manager. Please note that the Treasurer is not expected to attend all Board meetings.

65th anniversary parliamentary reception - 10th December 2009

Parliamentary reception

On 18th November OPFS held a 65th anniversary Parliamentary Reception, hosted by Joe Fitzpatrick MSP and addressed by Alex Neil, Minister for Housing and Communities. The Parliament also passed a member's motion congratulating OPFS on our anniversary. Parents who use OPFS services spoke movingly of the difference our help had made to their lives.