Single parent and Group Lead Louise, shares why she started a Gingerbread group.

“Hello, I’m Louise, a single mum of two teenagers and a six-year-old, and I’m the group lead for the Northampton Gingerbread Group.

I separated from my husband over three years ago and even though I had friends and family supporting me, I didn’t want to keep burdening them. I looked online for single-parent groups and found Gingerbread, but the nearest group was too far to travel, so with a little persuasion from Gingerbread, I decided to set up the Northampton group myself.

It was perfect timing, as Delapre Abbey were looking for someone to run a single-parent group. We’ve held monthly sessions ever since. Parents chat over a hot drink while the children play together with toys and games.

After a few months, I realised the family sessions weren’t always ideal for deeper conversations, so I started adult-only meetups in addition to the family ones. We’ve done walks around Delapre Abbey, coffee mornings, outdoor swimming, and even a speed-dating event. I hadn’t been on a date in over 20 years and didn’t meet ‘the one,’ but it ended up being one of the funniest nights I’ve had in ages!

I really recommend adult-only events, our groups aren’t just about supporting us as parents, but as individuals. We deserve friendship, laughter and connection. Being a group lead means I can support other single-parent families, and the bonus is spending time with so many lovely families and good friends.”