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The Vulnerability & One Parent Family Network (VOPFN) is a collaborative research initiative that brings together historians, researchers, and NGOs to examine the experiences of one-parent families across multiple OECD countries, including Scotland, Ireland, England, Australia, and New Zealand.
Our Mission
Our mission is to bridge historical insights with modern policy discussions to better understand how economic, social, and political structures impact one-parent families. By conducting participatory research, we explore:
- The Historical Context – How policies and societal attitudes toward single-parent households have evolved.
- Lived Experiences – Amplifying the voices of one-parent families through research and storytelling.
- Policy Impact – Evaluating how legislation affects economic stability, child welfare, and social inclusion.
- Collaborative Advocacy – Working with NGOs, academics, and policymakers to shape better support system.
Why Our Work Matters
One-parent families often face disproportionate challenges, including financial insecurity, limited childcare access, and social stigma. Despite these realities, their voices are underrepresented in policymaking. VOPFN’s research aims to fill this gap, providing evidence-based insights to inform policy reform and community support initiatives.
How We Work
🔹 Cross-country comparisons: We analyze how different countries approach single-parent support and identify best practices.
🔹 Archival Research & Oral Histories: Uncovering historical narratives that shape today’s policies.
🔹 Partnerships with NGOs & Institutions: Ensuring our research translates into real-world impact.
🔹 Public Engagement & Events: Encouraging discussions on single-parent family issues in academic and policy circles.
As our work develops, we will share and discuss updates on our output website. Stay engaged for more information.
