Ema, Group Lead of North-West London Gingerbread Group, with her son.

“Volunteering for Gingerbread means a lot to me because I know firsthand how isolating single parenthood can feel. Sometimes what people need most is not a solution, but connection. A cup of tea, a conversation, a place where nobody has to explain why life feels heavy. 

Through Gingerbread I’ve met so many incredible parents who are juggling everything at once while still showing up for their children every day. The group creates a sense of belonging and reminds people they are not doing this alone. That feeling can completely change someone’s week, confidence, or even direction in life. 

I volunteer because community changed things for me. Being around other single parents helped me realise there was strength, humour and creativity even in difficult situations. I wanted to help create that same safe and welcoming space for others. 

A big part of what I love is seeing friendships grow naturally. Parents arrive nervous and leave laughing, swapping numbers, arranging meetups, or watching their children play together. It turns strangers into a support network. 

The difference Gingerbread makes is not always loud or dramatic. Sometimes it’s simply helping someone feel seen again. I think that matters enormously.”