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Grandparents meet fellow carers

Tristan WheelerManjimup-Bridgetown Times
Michelle Stayt, Robyn McCreanor, Moya Tomkinson, Joan Radomiljac and Belinda Smith
Camera IconMichelle Stayt, Robyn McCreanor, Moya Tomkinson, Joan Radomiljac and Belinda Smith Credit: Manjimup-Bridgetown Times

Grandparents caring for their grandchildren full-time will have the chance to bond with others in their situation, thanks to a new support group being run by Accordwest, with the support of Wanslea and the Manjimup Family Centre.

The group will touch on topics relevant to the experiences of grand-carers, including legal arrangements, respite, trauma and the effects of drug and alcohol on families.

Robyn McCreanor cares for two of her grandchildren and helped organise the sessions, saying that she wished something similar had been around when she first began caring for her grandchildren 20 years ago.

“It’s a good opportunity to get together, share our experience and hopefully help one another out,” she said.

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“Come along, we’re here for support and guidance and friendship really, it’s a lonely path and I think having some support and some people around you who understand what you are going through would help.”

Accordwest children and parenting service co-ordinator Michelle Stayt is helping to co-ordinate the sessions. “This support group is a really good example of why Manji is so great,” she said.

“The schools have been really fantastic in promoting the event and speaking with their grandparents.”

Wanslea provides a light lunch for attendees and the Manjimup Family Centre allows the group to use the room for free.

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