Small Talk, which is part of the Foundation's Covid Response Programme, is a collection of projects that provide support to those who were most adversely affected by the pandemic, including lone parents.

The Small Talk initiative originated in Scotland, where small-scale research was conducted among young single mothers under the age of 25 who had given birth during the pandemic. This research, carried out between February and April 2022 in collaboration with three partner organisations, clearly identified the need for support during the perinatal period (from birth to 12 months) and early mental health and well-being assistance for lone parents, including during pregnancy. It also highlighted the benefits of peer support networks for the emotional well-being of young mothers and their desire for more of such support.