As I prepare to step down as Interim CEO of Gingerbread at the end of September, I’ve been reflecting on the immense privilege it has been to lead such a historic and vital organisation.

For over 100 years, Gingerbread has been powered by the courage and vision of pioneering women determined to ensure that single parents are seen, supported and heard. Standing on their shoulders, it has been my honour to guide the charity through a time of both challenge and transformation.

When I joined, Gingerbread was emerging from a period of uncertainty. Like so many charities, we faced the realities of rising need, stretched resources, and the impact of societal inequality. Together, with an incredible team, trustees, partners, funders, and most importantly, single parents themselves, we set about building a stronger, more sustainable, and more ambitiously focused Gingerbread.

Some highlights from my time include:

• Strengthening our foundations – stabilising finances, modernising systems, and embedding a culture of agility and accountability.
• Launching new programmes and campaigns – from our Business Accreditation Scheme and Gingerbread Houses model, to bold campaigns tackling stigma, driving policy change, and amplifying single parent voices.
• Building community and connection – creating new digital spaces and support networks that reduce isolation and offer solidarity to single parents across England and Wales.
• Shaping the future – designing long-term strategies that not only meet immediate needs but lay the groundwork for systemic change.

Of course, there have been challenges, whether navigating funding landscapes, advocating for policy change in difficult times, or making tough decisions about organisational direction. Yet, time and again, I’ve been inspired by the resilience of single parents and the unwavering commitment of the Gingerbread community.

As I hand over the baton, I do so with deep pride and gratitude. Gingerbread remains as relevant today as it was when it was founded a century ago. The need is urgent, the mission is clear, and the future is bright thanks to the passion of those who continue to champion single-parent families.

To everyone who has walked alongside me on this journey, colleagues, trustees, funders, partners, ambassadors, and the many single parents who shared their stories, thank you. It has been an absolute privilege.

I look forward to watching Gingerbread continue to thrive and evolve in the years ahead, guided always by the voices of single parents themselves.