YES - PETER HARRIS, CHAIR OF THE GRANDPARENTS ASSOCIATION
What a grandparent is paid is for each individual to decide with the parent for whom they're providing childcare. We're not advocating payment from the state, but don't see why grandparents should not get the tax credits the Government gives to other childcare providers. Without grandparents, the cost of childcare to the country would be far greater: parents would pay much more for childcare or work part-time, which means an economic loss to both the individual family and employers.
YES - JEAN STOGDON, CHAIR OF GRANDPARENTS PLUS
There is a big difference between a grandparent who occasionally helps with childcare and one who provides full-time care. The issue is whether you should get government money without being accountable. The clearest thing would be for the money to go to parents to give to the grandparents, but ensuring this happens could be difficult. Payment between relatives is problematic; we need more research on how it could work. The big issue is how government fails to appreciate the invisible childcare grandparents provide.
Register Now to Continue Reading
Thank you for visiting Children & Young People Now and making use of our archive of more than 60,000 expert features, topics hubs, 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
-
Email newsletter providing advice and guidance across the sector
Already have an account? Sign in here
