22 Rise in lone parent numbers mostly attributable to rise in unmarried single mothers, whose numbers doubled 1989-1994. These include a large number of former cohabitees whose partnerships ended. Lower average incomes are largely caused by lower employment. UK has a high rate of lone parenthood, but one of the lowest employment rates of lone parents. A Personal Adviser service, offering a comprehensive package of jobsearch, childcare, training and benefits advice for lone parents, to help them off benefit and into work.
Participation is voluntary.
Budget 2000 Annual work focused interviews to be introduced for lone parents on IS whose youngest child is over 5. To be phased in gradually, starting with new claims in 2 pathfinder areas in October 2000.