South West Devon MP Gary Streeter’s has been in Plymouth talking to grandparents who took on the role of main carer for their grandchildren, and thinks there should be a change in welfare provision to reflect their hard work.
On his website he says of the grandparents: “Many of them are struggling financially as well as emotionally and physically, to take on such unplanned responsibilities just when they should be taking it a bit easier.
“Needless to say, many of the children concerned were scarred by the experience that had led to the intervention and getting them back on the straight and narrow is a demanding task.
“Well, at least, you say, the welfare state would recognise this selfless act that will save the country hundreds of thousands in fostering costs. Wrong. There is no separate recognition for this kind of intervention. But there should be. As I have often argued, our support system does too much for some people but not enough for others. Not only are they saving the tax payer a fortune, but with all of their grey-haired parenting experience, they are producing well turned out future citizens that would not happen if the state became the parent of last resort.
“This group certainly deserves more support and I shall try and make sure it happens.”
Loading ...
Recent Comments