What is a friendship group?
A friendship group is run by single parents and allows people in similar situations to come together to share experiences, make friends and support each other. Each friendship group is different but many are run on an informal basis, arranging meet-ups in local coffee shops, playgrounds or children's centres. It’s best to get in touch with the group contact to find out the latest details.
How do I find my local group?
Use the
Group Map - members can
login to get full details or click on the Group regions list to the right of this page. Alternatively you can call us on 0800 018 4318 (10am – 1pm, Mondays to Fridays) or
fill in our form.
What if there isn’t a group near me?
We encourage people to
start up their own group and give them support where possible, however, if you don’t wish to do this, there is always the online
community where we encourage people to make friends and find support.
How often does my local group meet?
Each group is different, based on how many people attend and the commitments of the lead parent. It’s best to phone the lead parent of the group to find out this information.
Do I have to pay to attend?
Most groups do not charge you to attend, however it’s reasonable to expect to be asked for small contribution if the group has to hire a room, or is planning a day out.
Do I have to be a member to join a group?
Yes. This is for everyone’s security and safety. It’s quick and easy to sign up, completely free and comes with lots of benefits. Gingerbread members enjoy exclusive discounts and offers, access to the private areas on the forum, a monthly e-newsletter, and the chance to have their say on issues affecting single parents through Gingerbread surveys. So it’s really worth
joining.
Can my children come with me to group meetings?
The groups are set up with families in mind. Some groups prefer to do adult only sessions every now and then for a bit of a break but the majority of the time, children will be very welcome. Please talk to your group lead if you are not sure.
How do I know my child will be safe?
When a new group is set up, we ask all of the group coordinators to read and understand the child protection information and resources provided by the
Safe Network, and ensure that their group members are aware and have access to this information. The Safe Network provides information and resources to help keep children safe from harm, for example through accidents and bullying as well as child abuse. They also provide information about how to manage concerns about other people’s parenting. The Safe Network is jointly managed by the NSPCC, Children England and the Child Accident Protection Trust (CAPT). We strongly advise all new group members to read through the resources which are available
on our website. Please note you’ll need to be registered as a Gingerbread member to access this part of the website.
Can my mother/father/ex-partner/other bring the children to the group without me?
We generally advise against this as it puts the rest of the group in a very difficult position. The groups are great ways for children to make friends, but it should not be seen as another form of childcare. Some members of the group may have issues with their family or ex-partner that they come to group meetings to take a break from, so having new people attend in your place may make them feel uncomfortable. If the rest of the group are unhappy, we support the right to ask someone not to attend any further.
My local group doesn’t meet very often. Is there any way I can find support now?
If you need advice, call
Gingerbread’s Single Parent Helpline. Alternatively our online
community is available 24 hours a day. Join the
conversation today.
Do you trained advisers attend meetings?
No.These groups are run by single parents just like you, so there is no formal training or advice and the primary aim is to make new friends and share experiences.
Do you provide holidays?
No.There are sometimes discounts for members through holiday companies and some groups organise day trips or small breaks away together but it is best to ask the group contact about this.
Can I advertise my local group?
We encourage groups to advertise locally and online. Many community centres, doctor’s surgeries and libraries will let you display your poster or advert in their waiting room and many local shops will display your advert for a small fee. Please remember to obtain consent of the group lead before advertising their personal numbers. We also recommend advertising your next meet up or outing on our
community forums.
How do we find new members?
Gingerbread can put new members who are in your area in touch with you but you can also use the Gingerbread members' forums to advertise your group. We also recommend advertising in your local paper, health centres and community centres. If you would like more ideas, why not discuss it in our forum or
send us an email?
I’ve had an argument with someone at the group. Can you help? Gingerbread does not get involved in internal group disputes. We try to provide as much information and written support as possible on how to resolve any issues you may have but it is impossible for us to solve the common arguments or clashes of personality that can sometimes occur.