Kinship carers and Grandparents Plus were featured on ITV News yesterday evening reaching 3.82 million viewers. The report focussed on the outbreak of coronavirus, and how the talk of relaxing lockdown restrictions is causing anxiety among grandparents in the UK who care for children.
Wendy shared her concerns in caring for two grandchildren, Willow and Callum. She told ITV News:
“Should I catch COVID-19, then I’m afraid it’s probably game over.”
Our remote support groups were featured, showcasing the ways kinship carers are using technology to stay in touch. One of the issues raised in this discussion was the concern about returning to school, and the fear of catching the virus. Sandra voiced her worries:
“If anything happens to me there is no one to take these children. I’d rather stay at home then go back to school and end up catching something”
We not only heard from kinship carers, but also from the children they look after. Harvey, aged 14, made a poignant comment:
“It’s just really scary at the moment because I just feel like if they do get it, it’s partly my fault. I could give it to them. I would be lost without them.”
Willow, aged just 8, echoed this sentiment and expanded on just how much her grandma does for the family.
“I’m kind of worried about grandma, she does everything for me and Callum and grandad, she does the cooking, she does the ironing and she does all the chores in the house.”
If you’d like to read the full article please visit the ITV News website.
Special thanks go to all the kinship carers who gave their time and shared personal stories. We are working hard to raise awareness of the challenges faced by kinship families so that they are recognised, valued and properly supported. Many of you will find the stories familiar, moving and affecting. Please do remember that our advice and support team are available daily, 9.30am to 3.30pm, and Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 8pm to 9.30pm. Should you have any questions just give us a call on 0300 123 7015.
For more information on coronavirus and useful resources on how to cope during this difficult time please visit COVID-19: Information for kinship families.
