'More parents rely on grandparents'

From Grandparents Apart Wales

'More parents rely on grandparents'
(UKPA) – 12 hours ago

Grandparents are playing a vital role in helping parents return to work, by looking after their children, often for free, according to new research.

A survey of 2,000 working parents, mainly women, showed that almost half depended on their own mothers and fathers to help out with childcare so they could work, with two out of five using child minders, friends or other members of their family.
Just 4% of those surveyed by online jobs website Workingmums.co.uk employed a nanny or au pair, with almost half of grandparents looking after children for free.
Two out of five mothers said the cost of childcare was preventing them from returning to work, with one in 10 of those polled paying more than £750 a month.
One in four said childcare cost them £250 a month and a similar number paid between £250 and £750.

Family-friendly companies were said to be those offering flexible hours, working from home and part-time jobs, according to the report.
Gillian Nissim, founder of Workingmums.co.uk, said: "The survey shows just how important grandparents are in helping parents get back into the workplace. Working mums are able to contribute significantly to the British economy as a result of their parents looking after their children.
"Without their help, it would be impossible for many mums to go back to work - grandparents not only help with the childcare but also keep childcare costs to a minimum."

Sam Smethers, chief executive of Grandparents Plus, said: "This survey confirms that working mums are increasingly relying on grandparents for childcare.
"Families are under increasing financial pressure and grandparents are helping to bridge the childcare gap. It is time we start recognising the growing contribution of grandparents."

Copyright © 2010 The Press Association. All rights reserved.