Going through a pregnancy alone can be a harrowing experience, especially if you are left with no-one to turn to. You would think in today's highly connected society that situations like this cannot possibly happen, but they do and I've been there.
If you are a single-mum-to-be or know someone that is, Gingerbread - the national charity for single parent families - has just launched an email advice pack for women who are single and pregnant. The aim of the pack is to give women free, instant access to the information they need to help them get ready for their new arrival.
The pack can be sent straight to your inbox – quickly, privately and completely free – by going to www.gingerbread.org.uk/emailadvice.aspx and entering your email address.
Not all of it will be relevant in all circumstances but the information is there nevertheless and could prove invaluable to those unsure about issues such as finance, child maintenance, contact arrangements and parents’ rights.
On a more personal note, it is very possible to survive pregnancy as a single person and go on to have a wonderful relationship with your child. I've been there too.
Further advice packs and factsheets are also available covering a range of subjects from www.gingerbread.org.uk.