RBS funding provides top survival tips for single parents

29.05.2005 As The Royal Bank of Scotland Group (RBS) doubles its funding for the national, free Lone Parent Helpline, Britain's 1.8 million single parents are being offered a checklist of Ten Top Survival tips – covering key areas such as childcare, flexible working rights, dealing with loneliness, financial entitlements and housing.    Produced by charities One Parent Families, One Parent Families Scotland and One Plus and RBS, the Top Tips (below) aim to give pointers on single parents' most pressing concerns. 
RBS is providing £1 million to back the charities' free Lone Parent Helpline, enabling them to expand its reach with evening sessions to allow single parents to call at a time that is convenient for them. 


Since its launch in 2002, the helpline has taken over 64,000 calls from single parents needing help, many of whom have been through family break-ups and need accurate and independent information fast. The charities anticipate that by 2008, the new funding will enable them to take 40,000 calls annually, almost doubling their current capacity.
Stephen Moir, Community Investment Manager at The Royal Bank of Scotland Group said: "Lone parents are among the most vulnerable groups in society and have specific advice needs. The Lone Parent Helpline is a lifeline to many, offering support and practical advice to the one in four British families now headed by a single parent. The Royal Bank of Scotland Group is committed to supporting lone parents as part of its co-ordinated approach to promoting financial inclusion."
Chief Executive of One Parent Families Nicola Simpson said: 'Access to the right information is crucial for single parents, however they came to be raising their children alone.  But often parents tell us they don't know where to turn.  Thanks to the generosity of The Royal Bank of Scotland Group, we will be able to expand our helpline services and get help to many more of the families who need it most.'
29th June 2005