The pilot scheme follows these 4 key stages. Exact dates and deadlines will be shared directly with pilot participants. Extensions may be considered on a case-by-case basis. 

• Application Submission – Complete and submit your application form. 

• Audit & Verification – Independent assessors review your documentation and may conduct surveys or interviews. 

• Accreditation Awarded – Successful applicants receive a certificate and digital badge. 

• Annual Review – Ongoing checks to maintain accreditation. 

You will need to provide brief descriptions and/or documents related to: 

• Workplace flexibility (e.g. flexible hours, remote work, job sharing) 
• Parental leave and support (e.g. leave entitlements, return-to-work processes) 
• Financial and childcare assistance (e.g. childcare schemes, emergency support) 
• Career development and mentorship (e.g., training opportunities, mentoring) 
• Inclusive workplace culture (e.g. anti-discrimination policies, employee networks) 
• Employee testimonials or survey data to support your application. 

Participating businesses are expected to: 

• Complete the application form honestly and thoroughly. 

• Provide supporting documentation where applicable. 

• Engage with assessors during verification. 

• Participate in feedback activities to help shape the scheme. 

• Maintain and improve practices in line with your accreditation level. 

There are three levels of accreditation: 

Bronze

Foundational support for single parents (e.g., flexible working, fair leave policies). 

Silver

Formalised policies and structured support (e.g., job sharing, childcare support, mentorship). 

Gold

Sector-leading practices (e.g., enhanced leave, structured career pathways, CSR initiatives). 

Each level reflects the depth and breadth of your organisation’s commitment to supporting single parents. 

Participation in the pilot may be subsidised or offered at a reduced rate to encourage early involvement and feedback. Full pricing details will be shared with interested businesses. 

If your application doesn’t meet your chosen level, assessors may: 

• Recommend a lower accreditation level 
• Provide feedback and invite you to reapply after improvements 
• Offer support to help you reach your desired level in the future 

Yes. You can reapply or seek a higher accreditation level after implementing additional policies or practices. Annual reviews also provide an opportunity to progress (additional costs may apply).

Accreditation is valid for one year, with an annual review to ensure continued compliance and progress. We encourage accredited employers to build on their commitments year on year.

Gingerbread will guide you through the accreditation journey with: 

• A clear application pack outlining requirements 

• Support webinars or 1:1 calls during your preparation 

• Templates or examples where appropriate 

• Access to our team for questions throughout your application 

• Feedback on your submission to support continuous improvement 

Any organisation committed to supporting single parents in the workplace can apply, regardless of size or sector. We welcome applications from SMEs, large corporations, charities, and public sector employers. 

Yes, accredited employers receive a digital badge and certificate that can be used on your website, social media, and recruitment materials to showcase your commitment to supporting single parents.

After submission, independent assessors will: 

• Review your documents and policies 

• May request additional evidence or clarification 

• May conduct short employee surveys or interviews to understand lived experience 

• Provide clear feedback and a decision on accreditation level.

We understand every organisation is different. Please get in touch if you need additional time to complete your application, and we will discuss flexible timelines where possible. You can submit your application at any time, as there is no deadline for submissions. 

Public recognition is encouraged, but it is not mandatory. You can choose how and when you share your accreditation status externally, in discussion with the Gingerbread team.

Single-parent-friendly-accreditation complements your wider equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) strategy. Supporting single parents helps advance gender equality, socio-economic inclusion, and workforce wellbeing while demonstrating your commitment to family-friendly practices.

Yes, we encourage engaging your staff networks (e.g., parenting, women’s, carers’ groups) in reviewing your policies and practices, gathering feedback, and co-creating improvements as part of your application process. 

Accreditation helps: 

• Improve employee attraction and retention 

• Reduce absenteeism and turnover costs 

• Boost morale and productivity 

• Strengthen your employer brand and CSR profile 

• Contribute to a fairer, more inclusive workplace culture 

Each year, we will invite you to: 

• Submit a short update on any policy or practice changes 

• Share insights on progress or challenges 

• Reconfirm your commitment to the standards required for your accreditation level 

This process supports your continuous improvement while maintaining your accredited status.