 Being a grandparent can be the best job in the world – all the fun of being a parent and none of the responsibility.
Just hand them back at the end of the day and sit down in peace with a nice cuppa and think how wonderful life is. But, for one in three grandparents reality is very different.
They’re helping out with childcare on a regular basis so parents can go out to work.
In some cases, they’ve even had to take on full time care, perhaps because of an accident, a death, or drug and alcohol addiction.
Just at the time of life when they want to relax and enjoy themselves, they’re putting their own lives on hold indefinitely.
Much as they love their grandchildren, this can be a real challenge - often with no financial support or additional help, and at a high cost to their own health.
If you’re one of the hundreds of grandparents across the New Forest affected by this, help is at hand.
Community First New Forest has launched a grandparents’ support group.
The next meeting is on Monday 13th July from 12.30 till 2.30 at Brockenhurst Village Hall.
A representative from Social Services will be speaking and answering your questions.
You will also have the chance to chat to other grandparents in the same position and decide what happens next.
Everybody is very welcome to come along – just turn up on the day.
If you have any questions or want more information please contact Pam Mason-Smith at Community First New Forest on 01425 482773 or E-mail hollybushcottage1@btinternet.com |
