Fordingbridge Salvation Army partners Gingerbread to launch single parents’ support group

Single mums and dads in Fordingbridge now have a new space to find connection, support, and recognition for the incredible job they do every day.

Raising a family is no small task, and for single parents, the daily pressures can feel overwhelming, juggling work, childcare, and the emotional weight of doing it all alone.

The Fordingbridge Salvation Army has partnered with national charity Gingerbread to launch a Single Parents’ Support Group. The group meets on the second Sunday of each month from 2:00 to 3:30 PM at the Fordingbridge Salvation Army Hall on Roundhill.

 The group, run by single parents for single parents, promises a relaxed, child-friendly environment where attendees can be open about their experiences while building friendships and accessing helpful resources. Best of all, it’s completely free.

 Why join?

• A chance to chat with others who "get it"
• A supportive, judgment-free space
• Fun, informal, and child-inclusive
• Practical advice and encouragement

These sessions will be run by a Salvation Army volunteer, who is also a Gingerbread-trained volunteer.

Gingerbread, a leading charity for single-parent families, champions a society where all single parents and their children thrive. Their mission—We challenge. We support. We connect.—aligns perfectly with The Salvation Army’s commitment to serving communities with practical care and compassion. 

Mike French, leader of The Salvation Army in Fordingbridge, said: “At The Salvation Army, our mission has always been to serve our community in practical and meaningful ways—meeting people where they are and helping them grow. We heard from single parents in Fordingbridge who needed a space to connect, share their struggles, and know they’re not alone. Partnering with Gingerbread allows us to step in and fill that gap, offering both support and celebration for the incredible work single parents do every day."

“This is a safe space for the parents to share together their success and struggles. To encourage one another, to share positive experiences and things that work well, as well as to have space to share those experiences that are emotional, challenging, or difficult with people in similar situations. Parents can come with or without their children, who can play with toys and Lego, do simple crafts or activities and enjoy the garden.”

The group is open to all single parents in the area, whether they’re navigating financial strain, emotional challenges, or simply seeking solidarity. Through this initiative, The Salvation Army and Gingerbread hope to strengthen the community by ensuring no single parent has to walk their journey alone. 

The Salvation Army in Fordingbridge has regular social events and support groups that provide a sense of belonging and reduce isolation, which can be a significant factor for people experiencing financial hardship. These include a 'Tea and Play Cafe' on Monday and Friday mornings for those with preschool children—it is free to attend and refreshments are available at a low cost.

For more information about The Salvation Army in Fordingbridge, visit Fordingbridge | The Salvation Army. To learn more about Gingerbread and its programmes across the country, visit its website: Home | Gingerbread.