'Sinners, Scroungers, Saints: Lone mothers, past and present'

The Women's Library at the London Metropolitan University is currently hosting a revealing new exhibition 'Sinners, Scroungers and Saints'.

The exhibition explores the ways in which lone mothers have been represented over time from First World War widows to the 'Vicky Pollard' stereotype of teenage mothers.

Developed in collaboration with One Parent Families | Gingerbread, the exhibition showcases new research, challenges common perceptions and tells the stories of lone mothers from the 1800s to the present day.

There are many reasons why women become lone parents, including relationship breakdown, forced separation and, although rare, the independent choice to 'go it alone'. Sinners, scroungers, saints presents archive material and personal testimonies, questioning some popular myths.

The exhibition runs until March 29th and is open Monday to Friday from 9.30am to 5.30pm with a late opening of Thursday until 8pm; on Saturdays exhibitions are open from 10am to 4pm.

There is a chance to have a tour of the exhibition throughout its run on Saturday 26th January at 12pm; Saturday 23rd February at 12pm; Thursday 13th March at 6.30pm; Saturday 29th March at 12pm. There is no need to book just turn up and enjoy.

You can also experience the exhibition during the Library's Family Day on March 1st. This family day is an opportunity to see the Sinners, scroungers, saints exhibition in a relaxed, family-friendly environment, and to find out more about One Parent Families|Gingerbread. Members and non-members of One Parent Families|Gingerbread are welcome. There are free guided tours of the exhibition (children welcome!) at 11am, 1pm and 3pm, an activity table for children, and space to eat packed lunches.

Find out more about events at the Women's Library.

How to get there

The closest tube stations are at Liverpool Street and Aldgate East. If on the bus the 15, 25, 40, 42, 67, 78, 100, 115, 205 and 254 all serve Aldgate.