New research findings about modern Grandparents

Hi all,

Whilst creating our new Grandparents day e card for Grandparents Day (USA 11th September, UK 2nd October), I have been trying to find inspiration along with information on modern day Grandparents. I'm sure we all agree that Grandparents today are more likely to be young, active and fun role models for our children, but this was not enough - I wanted to know what it is really like for Grandparents today so I went on the hunt to try and find out.

I was pleased to find some very interesting and supportive websites out there for Grandparents. As well as raising important issues, they also carry out important research and I found some results that caught my eye on The Grandparents Association who reported that new research from Aviva had found that half of all UK grandparents look after their grandchildren and help around the house while mums and dads work and 99.5% do this for free.

Grandparents are not only helping to bring up their grandchildren, but it seems they are also providing financial support:

•    15% said they help out financially with occasional household bills
•    28% regularly do the school run
•    26% cook occasional meals for the family
•    33% help their grandchildren with their hobbies
•    13% assist with gardening

In todays financial climate, Grandparents are supporting the economy more than many give them credit for as without their help, many parents would be unable to work because of the high cost of childcare, reasons that (amongst others) on Grandparents day, as well as every day, Grandparents globally should be shown how important they are. Please make sure that your Grandparents know that you care, or if you are one yourself, give yourself a huge pat on the back!

Katie x

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