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is yours a grandparent of the year?
Children
around the country are being asked to nominate their
grandparents for the annual Grandparent of the Year award
before the end of the month.
Organisers Age Concern is calling on all grandchildren to
get in touch and tell the charity why their grandparent is
so special to them – whether it’s making you laugh,
listening to your problems, caring for you or giving advice.
The
annual award highlights the importance of grandparents as
they may contribute child care, economic resources,
expertise and experience to family life. It is also gives
the chance for grandchildren to say a special ‘thank you’ to
their grandparents.
Research
shows that grandparents are playing an ever increasing and
important role in family life. More than 20 percent of
parents see the main role of grandparents as acting as
advisors or tutors to a child. In addition to this
grandparents who provide childcare do so for an average of
15.9 hours per week.
‘Grandparents are more
important than ever,’
said Gordon Lishman, Director General of Age Concern
England.
‘They
offer incredible support to their families, particularly
their grandchildren. This is demonstrated by the amount of
money saved in paying for childcare. Grandparents really are
unsung heroes, and this is a chance for grandchildren to
really show their appreciation.’
Last
year’s winner was Jean Boyd, from Telford, who supported her
granddaughter Melissa with her recovery from a brain tumour
and has continued to help and encourage her now she is
paralysed after breaking her neck in a trampolining
accident. Jean was presented ‘Britain’s best grandparent’ by
Cherie Booth, QC, at a glitzy award ceremony in London.
To
nominate your grandparent call 020 8765 7504 to ask for a
nomination pack.
www.ageconcern.org.uk
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