Log in to Gingerbread

You need to be logged in to save pages.

Forgotten your password?

Not registered yet?

Our community membership is open to all single parents in England and Wales and gives you access to local and online support, news and events.

Register now

Your child’s wellbeing

Many children go through times when they need a little extra support. Growing up can be tough and children can face challenges at school or at home, sometimes due to changes in the family.

If your child is struggling, it can be hard to know what to do so we have some advice on where to find support in some of the most common situations.

And remember, it’s easier to support others when you’re looking after yourself too. Check out our page on wellbeing for tips on taking care of yourself.

Talking about your relationship ending

Becoming a single parent can be really challenging, and figuring out how to talk to your children about it can feel overwhelming. It’s completely normal for them to have a hard time with this change.

We have other pages on helping children through a separation and dealing with a death to help you start the conversation. These pages suggest organisations that can support you and your children. If your child is old enough, they might want to look at our pages about adjusting to your parents splitting up and coping when your mum or dad has died.

I’m moving on from domestic abuse

Talking to your children about leaving an abusive relationship can be especially difficult. If your child has witnessed or been involved in the abuse, they may need support to heal from what they’ve experienced.

If your child hasn’t seen the abuse firsthand, you might be unsure about what to tell them and how it will impact their relationship with their other parent.

Here are some specialist organizations that provide support for children and parents affected by domestic abuse:

I’m dealing wtih challenging behaviour

If your child is regularly doing things that are tough for both of you to handle, there’s support available.

It’s normal to feel helpless, confused, isolated, or even ashamed—many parents feel the same way. Your child’s behavior is often an indirect way of expressing how they’re feeling, especially if they don’t have the words to say it. By staying calm and having a conversation, you might be able to understand what they’re going through and get to the heart of the issue.

If your child is struggling but won’t talk to you, they might feel more comfortable opening up to someone else—like a relative, family friend, or teacher. They may also feel safer talking to a professional who specialises in helping young people. Your child’s teacher or school nurse could connect them with a counsellor or support worker. You can also ask your GP about local services and referrals.

Here are some organizations that might be able to help:

I’m worried about my child’s mental health

It can be really worrying if you notice changes in your child’s personality or mental wellbeing. You’ve probably already tried talking to them, but it can be difficult to know how to respond or offer the right kind of help. Your child’s GP, school nurse or counsellor may be able to guide you on the support available in your area.

You might also find these organisations helpful:

  • The Royal College of Psychiatrists has guides on lots of aspects of young people’s mental health. They have different information for parents and children on things like eating disorders, depression and stress.
  • Youth Access offers free local support across the UK for young people from the age of 11.

Your child might be facing challenges with their sexuality, eating habits or substance use. Here are some organisations that can provide support for these specific issues:

  • Beat helps young people with eating disorders and their families through their information, confidential helpline and email service. You can also find local support services.
  • FRANK gives advice and support on drug and alcohol use, including for parents concerned about a child.
  • Stonewall Young Futures is an information and support hub for LGBTQ+ young people thinking about their next steps.
  • The Mix has essential support for young people under 25 on lots of topics: sex and relationships, drink and drugs, work, studying, and health and wellbeing.
My child is being bullied

Bullying isn’t always obvious. It can take different forms, including:

  • Physical – pushing, hitting, or fighting
  • Verbal – name-calling or spreading rumors
  • Emotional – being excluded or humiliated
  • Online – through social media or other platforms

If you suspect your child is being bullied, here are some places you can turn to for support:

My child is a young carer

If your child looks after you or someone else in the family, there’s special support for them. 

Contact your local council to ask for a young carer’s assessment. This will help decide what support your family might need and what the council can give you. They should make sure your child isn’t taking on too much, and that their education and wellbeing are in good shape. The NHS has more on young carer’s rights.

  • Carers Trust is a network of organisations in England, Scotland and Wales offering information, advice, practical support and/or care in the home. Many but not all have services for young carers. Find your nearest one 
  • The Booklet for Young Carers was written for young carers by young carers – it has all sorts of useful information and advice.
  • The Children’s Society has advice and resources to help young carers be healthy, happy and focused on the future.
  • Sidekick is a confidential helpline for young carers in the UK. You can text or email them anytime about anything that’s bothering you as a young carer. 
  • Macmillan has lots of information and support if your child is looking after someone with cancer.
Does your child need a break?

You may feel your child could do with a break, especially if they’ve been having a hard time. 

Our page on going on holiday can help you plan a holiday for your family or just for your child. It points you to places that arrange holidays and days out for young people who may not otherwise get a break, including free or subsidised places to help with the cost.

Date last updated: 21 March 2025

New Report

Close