More Than 250 Grandparents Have Sought Help From Shared Parenting Scotland

A review of the Shared Parenting Scotland database has revealed more than
250 grandparents have sought information and help over the last nine years.
Some are seeking information on behalf of their son or daughter whose
relationship has broken down.

Others are distraught because they themselves have been cut adrift from their
grandchildren as collateral damage in their children’s dispute. They want to
restore their previous close relationship.

Yet others who have been main kinship carers for several years at the urging of
social services have found themselves abruptly cast aside when the mother or
father reappears in the children’s lives.

It is possible – but not easy – for grandparents to raise a child contact action in
court in their own right to restore a relationship with their grandchildren.
Sometimes the action is against their own children.

Shared Parenting Scotland Chief Executive, Kevin Kane, says, “Grandparents can
be no less hurt at the abrupt termination or restriction of a relationship that has
been part of a child’s life. Sometimes, unfortunately, grandparents can feel forced to
take sides on behalf of their son or daughter and against each other.

However, we also see how grandparents can also be the voice of goodwill and good
sense at a time of upheaval, reminding the mother and father of the importance to
their children of continuing as many as possible of the relationships they have
previously had with both sides of their family.”

Our New Ways for Families training is also open to grandparents. The training helps
families communicate more constructively and manage conflict without dragging
children into the middle. The New Ways For Families skills can empower all
generations, including grandparents, to play a stabilising role during and after
separation. In many cases, it can help restore or protect vital relationships before
court becomes the only option”.