The pressures of coping with the festive season combined with financial strains and conflicting emotions over families and loved ones makes Christmas one of the toughest times of the year.
Singlewithkids.co.uk is a holiday and social club for single parent families organising holidays, weekends and days out that don’t break the bank.
This year, it is hosting a series of Christmas and New Year get-togethers, from just £9 a night including a Christmas Bunk Barn Party, a Wonderful Welsh New Year and SWK Grand Christmas Party.
Website co-founder Chrissie Lewis, who has produced Singlewithkids’
“Many people experience mixed emotional feelings, such as loneliness, isolation and sadness, especially when the children have gone to bed or they’re away with the other parent.
“Singlewithkids is so successful because it is a community of people sharing experiences, advice and support, but above all it’s great fun! This year’s Christmas get-togethers are packed with party games, walking and festive celebrations.”
Singlewithkids was formed in January 2008 and although membership is not compulsory it provides discounts, priority bookings and a regular newsletter.
Many of the weekend breaks and holidays are in self-catering cottages and hostels or on camp sites where everyone helps organising meals and activities. To find out more about forthcoming trips visit www.singlewithkids.co.uk
2008 Christmas and New Year parties!
SWK Grand Christmas Party in the Peak District:November 28th-30th 2008 with party games, disco, buffet.
Christmas Bunk Barn Party Weekend in Peak District: 25th-27th December from just £9 a night. There’ll be party games and festive activities.
Wonderful Welsh New Year in Snowdonia: 30th December-1st January 09 fancy dress party, trips out and activities.
Singlewithkids’
If it's your first Christmas alone, consider breaking your normal routine so that your partner's absence is not as acute. Meet up with friends, go out for lunch…start building your own, new, festive traditions!
Don't think everyone else is enjoying themselves - Christmas can be a lonely time for lots of people, single or married; it's ok to admit you're finding it tough and you'll find many people agree and sympathise.
It's notoriously difficult (and expensive) to get a babysitter at this time of year so invite people to you instead. Ask them to bring a little something towards dinner - even if you do end up with a year's supply of mince pies!
Don't be pressurised into buying the latest, expensive toys. If money is tight, buy smaller presents. Most children enjoy time with their parent above anything else.
Friends and family usually understand when finances are tight and are much happier with something you and your children have made rather than accept a present they know you've struggled to afford. Home made chutney, photo-calendars (there's loads of free software online), cross stitched bookmarks - all quite personal and much more meaningful.
Treat yourself to something you would really like for Christmas or next year, eg a spa day, a long planned night out with friends, an evening course or holiday. It will be something to look forward to!
NOTES TO EDITORS
Membership of www.singlewithkids.co.uk costs £3.00 per month or £32.00 per year.
For further media information contact: Samantha Butcher, Julie Hackett or Denise Dawson at ICG on 01772 679383.
denise@icgononline.co.uk 07980 287550
samantha@icgonline.co.uk 07725633775
julie@icgonline.co.uk 07973 196 787
