News

In preparation for the forthcoming General Election, we will be talking to lone parents to see whether they are registered to vote and also to discuss the implications of the election for parents. Parents who are not registered to vote will need to do so by 20th April if they want to vote in this election (assuming it happens on May 6th as expected). We tell you about the implications of registering and why this election could be important for you.

Opportunity for Lone Parents

Dates for 2010
25th May - 11th June 2010

In Partnership with Barclaycard, and local service providers, One Parent Families Scotland “Choices” service is running a unique work placement programme.

On 4th February, the NUS (National Union of Students) held an event at the Scottish Parliament to launch their campaign for more support for childcare costs for parents in further and higher education, a campaign strongly supported by OPFS

The Scottish Government have launched a campaign for parents to "just ask" for help with any additional support needs that their children or young people may have in relation to their education

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.

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

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.

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.

The 101 Project recently held a pub quiz night in the Fort bar in Broughty Ferry. We managed to raise £700, and along with a small grant from the Home Mortification Fund, we will be able to provide activities for parents in the new year to support them and their families.
Thank you to everyone who supported the evening by attending or donating a prize for the auction and raffle. A big thank you to the Fort Bar for the venue and to Leigh our community education student, for organising the evening.

We would like to express our thanks to Rainbow Bright Nursery, Dundee who have generously raised money for Dundee Community Family Support Project