"Invisible generation" of grandparent carers

Grandparents who look after grandchildren and care for their own elderly parents are increasingly being caught in a poverty trap, a charity has said today.

These grandparent carers are being caught between the demands of their children, their children's children and their own parents, according to Grandparents Plus.

Its report, The Poor Relation?, identifies in an increase in grandparent carers living alone and on low incomes.

The report warns of an "invisible generation", looking after grandchildren and caring for very elderly parents at the same time, putting them under a big financial strain.

The charity's Chief Executive, Sam Smethers, said: "For many, particularly the 'gran-carers' who are of working age, on low incomes and who provide most of the childcare, it's a real struggle.

“They get no help with the challenge of combining work and care. As a result we see them taking low-paid, part-time work or dropping out of the labour market altogether," she said.

Grandparents Plus is a national charity, championing the role of grandparents and the extended family in children’s lives.

Earlier today, carer and grandmother, Carol Little, spoke to the BBC about her caring role.

Watch Carol's interview on the BBC News website.

Read The Trust's advice on caring for an older relative.

Published: 22 June 2009