Parent helplines
Children 1st Parentline Scotland
This free helpline, email and webchat service offers advice and support for parents and carers including cash grants, debt and income advice. They are available Monday to Friday between 9 am and 9 pm and Saturday and Sunday between 9 am and 12 pm. For more information visit the or call
08000 282 233
Families Outside
Families Outside offers support for families affected by imprisonment. Available Monday to Friday between 9 am and 5 pm. For more information visit the or email
support@familiesoutside.org.uk or call
08002 540 088 or text FAMOUT to 60777
Lone Parent helpline - One Parent Families Scotland
The Lone Parent Helpline provides advice and support to single parents. Call about anything from dealing with a break-up, sorting out child maintenance, understanding benefits, and money when having a baby, studying or moving into work. They provide a free confidential friendly service that provides advice and supports your well-being whatever you are going through.For more information visit the or email
advice@opfs.org.uk
Advisers are available Monday to Friday between 9.30 am and 4 pm via 08088 010 323 or via the webchat.
NSPCC
The NSPCC Helpline is staffed by trained professionals who can provide expert advice and support. You can contact them if you are concerned about a child, if you’re a parent or carer looking for advice, or if you’re a professional in need of information and guidance. The voice helpline is currently available between 10 am and 8 pm, Monday to Friday. For more information visit the or email
08088 005 000
Social Care Direct - children and families social work
Request help or advice about a child or vulnerable adult requiring support due to illness, a disability or who is at risk of harm.
0131 200 2324
If you think that a child needs immediate protection you must call Children and Families Social Work on
0131 200 2327
0800 7316 969 (out of hours)
An online referral to Social Care Direct for a child can be made at the Ask Social Care Direct for advice page.