Policies affecting Lone Parents

The increase in lone parenthood has been one of the most prominent demographic and social trends of the last 25 to 30 years.

• As a social problem. Lone parenthood is seen by some as an inherently second-rate and
  imperfect family type, reflecting the selfish choices of adults against the interests of children.
• As a fiscal problem. Lone parenthood generates increased levels of public expenditure, most noticeably in respect of welfare benefits.
• As a problem of poverty. Lone-parent families have a very high risk of poverty and lone parents and their children stay poor for longer than other families.

These competing definitions of the issues around lone parenthood have made it very difficult to take policy forward. However, an improved appreciation of the lives and situation of lone parents can explain the implications of particular policy options.

• Child Poverty Act - Under this act the Scottish Government is requried to prepare a strategy to reduce child poverty
• Early Years Framework - This highlights the importance of investment in early years and the need to co-ordinate all agencies involved
• Achieving Our Potential - The is Scottish Government Poverty Framework

• Equally Well - This report has an action plan for reducing health inequalities.

UK Policies affecting lone parents

There have been a number of changes at a UK level affecting lone parents. The most important ones have been the requirement that from early 2012 lone parents whose youngest child is 5, will be required to move from Income Support to Job Seeker's Allowance (JSA) and the reduction in the proportion of childcare costs covered by tax credits from 80% to 70% from 5th April 2011. For up to date information on benefit entitlements of lone parents, see www.opfs.org.uk/information.

Implications of UK Policies for lone parents in further and higher education
Previously lone parents were in the fortunate position of being able to study full time at a non advanced level while staying on Income Support, and lone parents in Higher Education were able to claim Income Support during the summer holidays. Now, any parents required to claim JSA rather than Income Support are unable to study full time at a non advanced level and still receive their benefit. Instead they have to apply for bursaries to cover living costs as well as childcare costs and this funding may not be available due to excess demand. Lone parents in higher education are still able to access JSA during the  summer holidays.

You can read more detail of these policies affecting lone parents here.