GRANNY DAY CARE PLEASURE OR PRESSURE?

Nearly 40% of grandparents play a role in childcare, but while some believe it to be a privilege, others argue it is a burden

- LOUISE COURT

Once you get over the fact that you couldn’t possibly be old enough to be a granny, who doesn’t relish the thought of playing with tiny versions of your now grown-up children? After all, forging that special relationship can be a delight. But today, at least five million grandparents in the UK are caring for their grandchildren regularly. The rising cost of living and an expectation that the older generation will play a greater role in the lives of their grandchildren means nearly 40% of grandparents are childcarers, says Age UK.

A major factor is that UK childcare costs are sky-high. A report by charity Pregnant Then Screwed has warned that the financial burden of childcare leaves four in 10 parents saying they often have to choose between paying for childcare or household essentials. Increased costs also mean many care providers are putting up their charges, with increases of nearly 6% last year, while availability of places has fallen.

Some grandparents feel it’s a privilege to have the little ones every week. They say it keeps them fit and healthy and, as the grandchildren get older, keeps them up to date with new trends and technology.

Others say ‘now’ is finally their time to be a bit more selfish. Of course, they want to spend time with their grandchildren – but on their terms. Some even say there is a sense of entitlement from the younger generation and that their kids think their life and free time are of less importance. Woman’s Own investigates…