Most grandparents relish their role as the occasional carer or provider of special treats and memorable experiences but sadly that's not what being a grandparent means for many people.
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Drugs, jail, mental health issues or death are just some of the reasons grandparents often find themselves caring for their children's children.
This can be a stressful time for these often elderly people who must dig deep emotionally and financially in order to provide a loving home for their grandchildren.
It was distressing to come face-to-face with the toll this can take after a grandmother contacted the Central Western Daily to seek our help in exposing the difficulties she was facing on a daily basis.
As this caring grandmother explained, the fact that she is a relative of the children she cares for means there are less supports in place to help her deal with the stresses and stains of raising the children.
This situation is a disgrace.
As a society we know the advantages which come with families staying together, even if parents aren't around.
We should be supporting in any way we can these people who are willing to help provide a loving home to perhaps the most vulnerable members of our community.
Tracey
