Grandparents’ invaluable contributions to childcare come down to so much more than money

We know that grandparents are a huge support to working families, regularly stepping in to help them face the challenge of conflicting work and childcare commitments.

It’s no real surprise then that a recent study by the Bank of Scotland found that more than two-fifths of families (44%) rely on help from grandparents when it comes to looking after children.

Given the wide-reaching impact of the COVID-19 outbreak, there’s no doubt that the past few months have been incredibly difficult. Not only for working parents, but also for grandparents and grandchildren.

Families have had to adapt to very challenging circumstances. Many grandparents will have been unable to meet new grandchildren who were born during lockdown and, while many kept in touch digitally, for the half a million over 60s in Scotland who don’t use the internet there wasn’t even the option of video calls with loved ones.

The Bank of Scotland survey, part of new How Scotland Lives research from the bank, also revealed that more than a quarter (27%) of parents felt they could no longer be as dependent on family and friends for childcare because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Despite this uncertainty, 12% of grandparents who do not usually take on childcare offered to do so over the summer holidays.

As lockdown measures have relaxed gradually, it’s been heartwarming to see grandparents across the country reuniting with loved ones and being able to take a more active role in childcare once again and it’s unsurprising to see an increasing number of grandparents stepping in to lend a hand, given the ongoing uncertainty and time spent apart.

Grandparents provide a sense of security and support for their grandchildren, who know they have someone to turn to for help and advice. Many older people also enjoy being involved in their grandchildren’s lives, saying it keeps them mentally and physically active.

With an increasing number of older people suffering from chronic loneliness, particularly following periods of isolation during lockdown, maintaining this connection is more important than ever.

On average, grandparents reported spending nine hours a week caring for their grandchildren in 2020 - up from eight hours in 2019. Given the UK average pay for professional childcare is just over £8 per hour, Bank of Scotland calculated grandparents are providing the equivalent of more than £3,770 of childcare throughout the year.

While most grandparents don’t expect to be compensated for childcare, we would encourage them to make sure they’re not missing out on any support they’re entitled to, especially during this difficult time. Many who are under State Pension age aren’t aware they can claim National Insurance credits if they provide regular care for children under 12.

Anyone who is unsure if they are receiving all the support they are entitled to can find more information here or call our free Helpline for further support on 0800 12 44 222.

The Bank of Scotland research is available here.