Martin Whitfield MSP has lauded the vital work that One Parent Families Scotland does each year providing advice, support and advocacy for families throughout Scotland.

Speaking during a member’s debate on the charity’s 80th anniversary, Mr Whitfield described it as having been ‘a beacon of hope and support for countless single-parent families across our nation’.

For eight decades, the organisation has dedicated itself to ensuring that single parents and their children have the resources, the guidance and the advocacy that they need to thrive in an ever-changing world.

Mr Whitfield went on to state his belief  that what makes One Parent Families Scotland truly special is its unwavering commitment to holistic family care and its understanding that single parents face a unique set of challenges.

Speaking after the debate, Martin Whitfield MSP said: 

“I was delighted that this debate was brought to parliament and to have the opportunity to highlight the positive difference One Parent Families Scotland has made to thousands of families over the last eight decades.

“Through their family support programmes, young parent initiatives, welfare rights advocacy and financial guidance, the charity does not only provide advice; it provides a lifeline, empowering parents to build better futures for themselves and their children.

“One Parent Families Scotland is at the forefront of addressing issues such as rising living costs and the impact of austerity. Its campaigns—including the make the case and better off: universal credit campaigns—are vital in amplifying the voices of families. It fights tirelessly for the financial support that many single parents so desperately need and advocates for policies that will alleviate the burdens that they carry.

“At the heart of the charity’s work are the stories of real people—parents who face each day with resilience and determination. I was honoured to be able to help celebrate the 80 years of One Parent Families Scotland and thank it for everything it does for single parent families.”

Find out more about the work of One Parent Families Scotland here.