Grandparents sometimes find themselves having to assume the care of their grandchildren, for a number of reasons. But it is never as simple as just becoming a parent all over again. Now such grandparents can turn to a new support group and helpline that has been set up in Aberdeen.
While the average figure for grandparents taking parental responsibility is around 1 per cent nationally, in Aberdeen it is 15 per cent. Jackie Kerr, project leader of Aberlour Child Care Trust's Primrosehill Family Centre, started a course to help grandparents and their young charges.
Jackie says, 'We had a group of seven grandmothers who were in very similar positions. They were all in sole charge of their grandchildren. Three of their daughters had died as a result of drug use, one had been murdered and the others, either the son or the daughter, felt unable to look after the children when their relationship broke down.
Register now to continue reading
Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Unlimited access to news and opinion
-
Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news
Already have an account? Sign in here
