... from SHIA e.V. Berlin

Dear Diary, today we are writing about a topic that has long been close to our hearts: the challenges faced by single parents. It is predominantly mothers who live in a society that does not sufficiently recognize their achievements. Their ability to combine work and family life, while often putting their own needs on the back burner, is admirable and deserves not only respect, but a fundamental social appreciation.

However, the reality is sobering. The high risk of poverty that affects many single parents is closely linked to their role as mothers. Wage inequality, career breaks due to parental leave and underrepresentation in management positions are just some of the hurdles they have to overcome. It is shocking how structural injustices, such as tax disadvantages and precarious employment, limit their ability to lead a secure and stable life for themselves and their children.

In Berlin, 30.7 % of all family households are single-parent families, and the majority of these households are headed by women. The double burden of paid work, childcare and housework is a reality that often leads to chronic stress and health problems. Social stigmatization and the feeling of loneliness intensify these burdens.

This is where the SHIA e.V. project comes into play. Health advice for single parents is intended to offer single parents the opportunity to strengthen their health literacy and receive practical support. This project could help to reduce health risks and show ways to lead a healthier lifestyle. But it's not just about individual help - it's also a question of structural change. Expanding networks and raising awareness among medical professionals of the special needs of single parents is crucial.

It is time that we as a society recognize the achievements of these heroes and bring about the necessary changes. We are fighting for this project as a support system that enables single parents to lead a fulfilled and healthy life. Because they do great things every day - and it's high time we gave them the support they deserve!
See you soon,
Your SHIA e.V. Berlin