Respite a welcome relief for Queensland grandparents
Queenslanders who are raising their grandchildren will welcome news that they have ongoing access to respite programs to give them a much-needed break. Seniors Minister Warren Pitt said today Lifeline would get Queensland Government funding of more than $1.75 million to run the Time for Grandparents program for another three years.
(Media-Newswire.com) - Queenslanders who are raising their grandchildren will welcome news that they have ongoing access to respite programs to give them a much-needed break.
Seniors Minister Warren Pitt said today Lifeline would get Queensland Government funding of more than $1.75 million to run the Time for Grandparents program for another three years.
“Time for Grandparents is a statewide program offering fully funded activities for grandparents who are raising their grandchildren outside the statutory child protection system,” Mr Pitt said.
“Many grandparents performing this vital role cannot take access diversionary activities due to financial and physical constraints.
“The Time for Grandparents program will ensure grandparents and their grandchildren receive the support and respite they need, so that grandparents can continue their important role and maintain their wellbeing and general health.”
Mr Pitt said Lifeline had been trialling the Time for Grandparents program through the Seniors Enquiry Line since December 2005. For the cost of a local call, the Seniors Enquiry Line can link grandparents with activity providers throughout the state.
Mr Pitt said he was committed to ensuring that grandparents were better supported so they could cope with the often demanding role of helping their families.
He said the program included specialised “Grandfamily” camps, at which grandparents and grandchildren could spend quality time together. “Namballie” camps, focusing on cultural revitalization, were also available for Indigenous grandfamilies.
“The Time for Grandparents program is extremely flexible, allowing families to choose activities that suit their respite needs,” he said.
“For instance, some families may wish to spend quality time together away from daily pressures, while other families may need some time apart.
“Some grandparents prefer the children to take part in a program while others welcome the chance to meet other people in similar situations. I hope more people will take advantage of this useful service.”
The Seniors Enquiry Line also received $2500 to buy a laptop computer to support the program
Media contact: Peter Nibbs 3235 4280 or 0417 789 208
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