‘New Futures’ for lone parents launched in Galway today

An intensive career and personal development initiative for lone parents is being launched in Galway today, to prevent those most in need from falling into long-term unemployment. ‘New Futures’ is a unique programme developed by One Family, funded through FAS and delivered in partnership with the Galway City Partnership. It is targeted at lone parents to allow them to receive the special tailored support that they need.

‘The underlying thinking behind ‘New Futures’ is the linking of all relevant services to help lone parents get back into the workforce,’ explains Karen Kiernan, Director of One Family, Ireland’s leading support organisation for people parenting alone. ‘Although there have been improvements in services offered through FAS and the Local Employment service, much more has to be done.’

‘Often lone parents face several barriers to getting back to work or education that need to be addressed at the same time. For example, a lone parent who has been out of the job market for 10 years may require access to career counseling as well as employment services. Improved co-ordination of these services will ensure that these parents get the support they need, whilst avoiding duplication.’

‘New Futures’ is FETAC Level 5 and has been nominated for an Aontas Star Award. The course aims to:

• Provide lone parents in need of tailored help with early access to intensive career, personal, employment and mentoring support.
• Bring a wider range of services together so that lone parents can get the tailored support they need, when they need it.
• Harvest the potential quality of life enhancements for lone parents, their children and their families that result when a lone parent renews their confidence and abilities to secure a job or enhance their skills and educational attainment.

As an integral part of the programme the following services are available:

• Childcare and parenting guidance, 121 keyworking and mentoring, Counselling support and Guidance to facilitate making work pay

For further information please contact Hilary Fennell, Communications Manager, One Family 01 6629212 or see www.onefamly.ie