The figures are sad: One in five families in Germany lacks either a mother or a father - and the trend is rising. In 82 percent of cases, women are left to raise the children and take on the responsibility all by themselves. If the partner is no longer there, mothers have to deal with many problems at the same time: How to pay the rent? How to arrange childcare? How to find a place in a daycare center? They often return to work early - even when the children are still small. Six out of ten single mothers work because they have to earn money for their small family. Many only see their children in the evening. Many compromises are necessary to manage the balancing act between work, household and mothering duties.

Yvonne (26), single parent trainee teacher from Celle:
"I couldn't have done it without the support of my parents"

"My twins Sirka and Lasse weren't planned. Sure, Thomas and I had already been living together for two years and were theoretically old enough to become parents. But we were both in the final stages of our studies. Thomas wanted to do his Master's and I was already looking around for schools where I could start as a teacher after graduation. And then I got pregnant. I was shocked and happy. Thomas was just shocked. He didn't want children yet.

We argued a lot, and then he got the chance to write his thesis in Sydney. Australia was more attractive than me and two babies, so overnight he was suddenly over the hill. My parents reacted great. I was able to move back home immediately. And instead of blaming me, they were actually happy. What's more, they advised me to finish my studies and apply to schools. They said that it was important to do my exams and my traineeship if I wanted to have a solid foundation at some point. My mother accompanied me to all my doctor's appointments and my father turned his office into a nursery. Today we all live under one roof - and it works really well.

The twins are now 16 months old and my parents are happy to have their grandchildren around. I've been working at a local school for four months now and can still spend a lot of time with my children. And I know one thing for sure: none of this would be possible without my parents."

Pia (39), single parent media designer from Augsburg:
"Since I started working full-time again, I only see my children in the evenings"

When Martin died two years ago, my world was turned upside down. Markus was just four and Melli was only two years old. Because Martin had a good job, I was able to devote all my time to bringing up the children. When he was no longer there, I became the main carer. It was a really bad time. Within a few weeks, I had to find daycare places and a job. I couldn't afford a part-time job financially. And because I had been out of work for a few years, I couldn't be choosy. Now I work full-time, and after work I pick the children up from nursery. Real family time with lots of playing is often only available at the weekend."

Ulla (41), single parent dental assistant from Mönchengladbach:
"As a single mother, it's hard to meet a man"

My husband and I divorced when Leander was just two years old. My ex spends a lot of time with his son - he's still a good father. And now that Leander is seven years old and at school, I have more time for myself again. Nevertheless, it hasn't worked out so far with a new love interest. Where am I supposed to meet a man? Most of the people around me are taken. And when I do go out, as a mother I quickly fall through the flirtation cracks. The word 'child' puts a lot of people off. A friend has now recommended a dating portal for family-friendly singles, let's see if it works."

Tatjana (34), single hairdresser from Viernheim:
"Accepting help from strangers as a single parent was hard"

"I separated from my partner a year ago. Merle was only two years old at the time and Max had just been born - but it just wasn't possible anymore. Of course, as a single parent, I was overwhelmed and on the verge of a nervous breakdown. When Max was asleep, Merle needed attention. I hated to admit it, but I needed help. There was a notice in the church for volunteer 'help moms' - that was my salvation. Erika has been coming to me regularly for a few weeks now to help me with the children. Her support is a blessing."

Eva (29), single mother cook from Calw:
"I give up my career for my little daughter"

"I completed my training as a chef with flying colors. After graduating, I was able to work in a Michelin-starred restaurant in Hamburg for two weeks as a trial. I was then made an offer. An incredible opportunity! But two weeks before I was due to start the job, I found out that I was pregnant. I couldn't count on the father, but I wanted the child. Even though I knew that the job would be gone. It hurt to leave my job and then have to work in wholesale. But Klara is worth every sacrifice."

Single parent, but not alone

Single parents really do face many problems alone. How good it is to get tips and help from other single parents. The Deutsche Fernsehlotterie therefore supports the "Gina - strengthened in everyday life" project, in which those affected meet to exchange ideas and find more serenity. Here, the women talk about parenting, discuss financial difficulties, network and single parents are helped to cope with the problems of everyday life. At "Gina", friendships develop - and people also enjoy relaxing with yoga or handicrafts. And the women always decide for themselves, there are no guidelines. You can find even more projects supported by the German Television Lottery at www.du-bist-ein-gewinn.de