Increasing numbers of grandparents are providing childcare for their grandchildren, research suggests.
Insurance provider RIAS has found three quarters of British grandparents now regularly help out.
The piece about grandparents providing free childcare didn't go out as planned on the 6pm BBC News but has been posted to the BBC News Website Jonathon Cooke and Justin (?) the camera man were with us for over an hour and I must say a big thank you to them for putting us all at ease and being incredibly sensitive when it came to working with very young children.
Dear Daughter said a lovely piece to camera about how much they would struggle financially without our help and how they are more than happy for us to care for the boys as they are happy and safe with us. For example, to cover childcare costs for two children for a full day at work would require twelve hours working at minimum wage - yet a huge majority of families find both parents have to work to keep a roof over their heads and food on the table.
Where I said that we get no recognition for our contribution to the economy, I meant from the government, instead of just NIC credits perhaps a guaranteed living wage for all like that recently proposed in Switzerland could bridge this gap? Many grandparents on the Gransnet Forums take a cut in income to help out some dip into their savings and some, in extreme situations, go into debt to help with childcare.
Alongside our time and financial input, age and health can also carry consequences. It may seem trivial, but the fashion for huge buggies cripples me, the sheer combined weight of child and Chelsea tractor style buggy eats up most of my "spoons" (see fibromyalgia and spoon theory) plus not being able to pace myself or have a nana nap on grandson days can leave me drained for days. All that said, I would not have it any other way, if there is a gap of two or more days between us having the boys we both miss them terribly, they bring a freshness and joy to our days plus of course unconditional love which is priceless.
Wednesday 13 November 2013
Tuesday 12 November 2013
Grandparents providing more free childcare.
Tonight at 6pm BBC News have a piece scheduled about the report below - they filmed us yesterday doing the school run and making a few comments, hope I come over ok and mentions of Gransnet North Yorkshire are left in.
If you are a grandparent who provides care for the grandchildren why not share your experiences on the forum?
GN NYorks Forum
BRITAIN’S GRANDPARENT ARMY GROWS BY 60%, SAVING BRITAIN £16.4BN ANNUALLY
New research from over 50s specialist insurance provider RIAS reveals today that three quarters (75%) of UK grandparents now provide childcare for their grandchildren1. Rather than an active choice, today’s report shows that the rising cost of living for families has forced many grandparents into the role, leading to financial difficulties for some – one quarter (26%) of grandparents reach into savings, and one in ten (11%) are forced to borrow money to cover activities and living costs2.
§ 9.8million now make up Britain’s Grandparent Army as the number of Grandparent childminders increases by over 60% since 20093.
§ Grandparents spend an average of 8.2 hours a week looking after their grandchildren – saving parents £1,659 on childcare fees annually4.
§ 99% of grandparents get no payment for their time5, despite some forking out £164 per month to support their families6.
§ Increased childminding is as a result of rising childcare costs (17%) and increasing parent workloads (32)7.
§ Expense of looking after children leads a quarter of grandparents dipping into savings (26%) and 1 in 10 grandparents going into debt.
§ Welsh grandparents provide the most childcare each week – almost 10 hours; whilst London parents see the biggest saving at £2,437 each year.
Now in its fifth year, the RIAS ‘21st Century Grandparenting’ Report reveals that the cost and the time commitment of being a Grandparent Childminder has rocketed since 2009. The nation has seen an exponential 61% increase in the number of grandparents providing childcare over the last five years, with 9.8 million currently drafted into the ‘Grandparent Army’, up from 6.1 million in 2009.
Despite many grandparents reaching a stage of life where they have the luxury of free time, three quarters of grandparents (74%) now take care of their grandchildren for an average of 8.2 hours a week – up 57% on 2009’s figures. This sacrifice saves their children an average £1,659 a year in child care costs, adding up to an annual nationwide saving or unofficial ‘child benefit’ of £16.4 billion4. This is substantially more (a 93% rise) than the £860 saved per family in 2009.
Financial expectations
On top of the 426 hours of formal childcare they provide each year, Grandparents now spend an average of £164 a month – almost £2,000 a year – regularly providing financial contributions towards toys, clothing, pocket money, savings and leisure activities6. This financial commitment is unaffordable for some, with one quarter (26%) of grandparents admitting they are forced to dip into their hard earned savings to pay for their grandchildren, whilst one in ten (11%) have even been driven into debt, and one in 20 (5%) have sacrificed holidaying to provide financial assistance.
Not only are grandparents missing out financially, but parents are slow to recognise the scale of the financial contribution that they’re making. Despite the monthly contribution from grandparents reaching over £164, parents believe that grandparents only contribute on average £72 to the family budget6.
Today’s research sees many parents acting in the belief that providing childcare benefits grandparents, with a third (32%) stating ‘it gives them something to do with their free time’ and a further third (37%) that it ‘keeps them active and stimulated’. Despite this, three in 10 grandparents said that their child minding obligations leave them tired (30%) and they wish they could do it for shorter lengths of time (8%), and a further one in ten even find it such hard work that it ‘feels like a job’ (11%).
More gratitude for grandparents
Although the majority of grandparents enjoy spending time with their grandchildren, one in 10 (14%) wish their adult children would show more consideration and plan according to the grandparents’ schedule, rather than what suits them. A further one in 10 (9%) grandparents wish that their children would show more appreciation for them giving up their free time. Just last month Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt set out how older generations and their needs are often ignored by younger generations and that the social contract between generations needs to be restored and re-invigorated7.
Parents feeling the pinch
The financial climate is a key factor on Brits turning to their parents to cut the cost of childcare. One in 10 (12%) are aware that childcare can be an imposition but feel they have no other option as they contend with the rising cost of living amidst stagnant incomes and a bleak job market. A quarter of grandparents (25%) have seen the amount of care they provide in the last year increase, blaming increasing parent workloads (32%). Additionally, close to a fifth of grandparents (17%) attribute the escalation in care to the increasingly expensive formal childcare costs.
Peter Corfield, Managing Director at RIAS, comments: “As households struggle to make ends meet, it’s easy to take advantage of having grandparents on hand to help lighten the childcare load. Grandparents not only continue to play a vital life line for UK families, but also bring knowledge and experience that benefits generations.
“It’s important that older generations are not merely seen as a money saving measure when it comes to babysitting. The enormous and selfless contribution today’s grandparents provide must be acknowledged as often the time, energy and experience grandparents give can often mean sacrificing their own plans and ambitions.”
Well-known broadcaster and grandparent, Janet Ellis, adds: “I love being a grandmother and adore spending time with my grandchildren, and know that Sophie’s three boys feel the same. Today’s findings show however that some grandparents are put in the difficult position of having to look after children because of no other choice. It is certainly worrying that some older people are going into financial difficulty to look after their grandchildren.
“People who find themselves in this position should have a frank family discussion outlining how any arrangement can suit all parties – grandparents should never have to compromise their bank balance, health or sanity and feel that taking care of their grandchildren is a chore rather than a joy. Being a grandparent and involved in grandchildrens’ lives is a privilege, and thank yous are always nice to receive.”
For more information about the full range of products RIAS offers, customers can visit www.rias.co.uk.
If you are a grandparent who provides care for the grandchildren why not share your experiences on the forum?
GN NYorks Forum
BRITAIN’S GRANDPARENT ARMY GROWS BY 60%, SAVING BRITAIN £16.4BN ANNUALLY
New research from over 50s specialist insurance provider RIAS reveals today that three quarters (75%) of UK grandparents now provide childcare for their grandchildren1. Rather than an active choice, today’s report shows that the rising cost of living for families has forced many grandparents into the role, leading to financial difficulties for some – one quarter (26%) of grandparents reach into savings, and one in ten (11%) are forced to borrow money to cover activities and living costs2.
§ 9.8million now make up Britain’s Grandparent Army as the number of Grandparent childminders increases by over 60% since 20093.
§ Grandparents spend an average of 8.2 hours a week looking after their grandchildren – saving parents £1,659 on childcare fees annually4.
§ 99% of grandparents get no payment for their time5, despite some forking out £164 per month to support their families6.
§ Increased childminding is as a result of rising childcare costs (17%) and increasing parent workloads (32)7.
§ Expense of looking after children leads a quarter of grandparents dipping into savings (26%) and 1 in 10 grandparents going into debt.
§ Welsh grandparents provide the most childcare each week – almost 10 hours; whilst London parents see the biggest saving at £2,437 each year.
Now in its fifth year, the RIAS ‘21st Century Grandparenting’ Report reveals that the cost and the time commitment of being a Grandparent Childminder has rocketed since 2009. The nation has seen an exponential 61% increase in the number of grandparents providing childcare over the last five years, with 9.8 million currently drafted into the ‘Grandparent Army’, up from 6.1 million in 2009.
Despite many grandparents reaching a stage of life where they have the luxury of free time, three quarters of grandparents (74%) now take care of their grandchildren for an average of 8.2 hours a week – up 57% on 2009’s figures. This sacrifice saves their children an average £1,659 a year in child care costs, adding up to an annual nationwide saving or unofficial ‘child benefit’ of £16.4 billion4. This is substantially more (a 93% rise) than the £860 saved per family in 2009.
Financial expectations
On top of the 426 hours of formal childcare they provide each year, Grandparents now spend an average of £164 a month – almost £2,000 a year – regularly providing financial contributions towards toys, clothing, pocket money, savings and leisure activities6. This financial commitment is unaffordable for some, with one quarter (26%) of grandparents admitting they are forced to dip into their hard earned savings to pay for their grandchildren, whilst one in ten (11%) have even been driven into debt, and one in 20 (5%) have sacrificed holidaying to provide financial assistance.
Not only are grandparents missing out financially, but parents are slow to recognise the scale of the financial contribution that they’re making. Despite the monthly contribution from grandparents reaching over £164, parents believe that grandparents only contribute on average £72 to the family budget6.
Today’s research sees many parents acting in the belief that providing childcare benefits grandparents, with a third (32%) stating ‘it gives them something to do with their free time’ and a further third (37%) that it ‘keeps them active and stimulated’. Despite this, three in 10 grandparents said that their child minding obligations leave them tired (30%) and they wish they could do it for shorter lengths of time (8%), and a further one in ten even find it such hard work that it ‘feels like a job’ (11%).
More gratitude for grandparents
Although the majority of grandparents enjoy spending time with their grandchildren, one in 10 (14%) wish their adult children would show more consideration and plan according to the grandparents’ schedule, rather than what suits them. A further one in 10 (9%) grandparents wish that their children would show more appreciation for them giving up their free time. Just last month Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt set out how older generations and their needs are often ignored by younger generations and that the social contract between generations needs to be restored and re-invigorated7.
Parents feeling the pinch
The financial climate is a key factor on Brits turning to their parents to cut the cost of childcare. One in 10 (12%) are aware that childcare can be an imposition but feel they have no other option as they contend with the rising cost of living amidst stagnant incomes and a bleak job market. A quarter of grandparents (25%) have seen the amount of care they provide in the last year increase, blaming increasing parent workloads (32%). Additionally, close to a fifth of grandparents (17%) attribute the escalation in care to the increasingly expensive formal childcare costs.
Peter Corfield, Managing Director at RIAS, comments: “As households struggle to make ends meet, it’s easy to take advantage of having grandparents on hand to help lighten the childcare load. Grandparents not only continue to play a vital life line for UK families, but also bring knowledge and experience that benefits generations.
“It’s important that older generations are not merely seen as a money saving measure when it comes to babysitting. The enormous and selfless contribution today’s grandparents provide must be acknowledged as often the time, energy and experience grandparents give can often mean sacrificing their own plans and ambitions.”
Well-known broadcaster and grandparent, Janet Ellis, adds: “I love being a grandmother and adore spending time with my grandchildren, and know that Sophie’s three boys feel the same. Today’s findings show however that some grandparents are put in the difficult position of having to look after children because of no other choice. It is certainly worrying that some older people are going into financial difficulty to look after their grandchildren.
“People who find themselves in this position should have a frank family discussion outlining how any arrangement can suit all parties – grandparents should never have to compromise their bank balance, health or sanity and feel that taking care of their grandchildren is a chore rather than a joy. Being a grandparent and involved in grandchildrens’ lives is a privilege, and thank yous are always nice to receive.”
For more information about the full range of products RIAS offers, customers can visit www.rias.co.uk.
Wednesday 6 November 2013
What's the Difference Between Limits and Consequences?
What's the Difference Between Limits and Consequences?
Lessons to be learnt from a bouncing ball, well worth a read.
Lessons to be learnt from a bouncing ball, well worth a read.
Saturday 2 November 2013
Weepy weekend
Feeling rather sad and weepy today, the heavy grey skies mirrors my mood however that will not stop me getting out into the garden to prune and tidy up my climbing roses before the harsh winter weather takes over.. such feelings are best acknowledged then told where to go before they take up too much head space.
Guess to feel sad is utterly normal after such a heavy week with all the mixed emotions that the doctor's initial diagnosis of deafness for little Angel brings into our lives. We took them to a soft play yesterday afternoon and while the eldest got busy socialising and playing chasing and jumping games little angel toddled around doing his own two year old things, mostly involving balls. Granddad nearly wept though when he lay down in the football area and two older children starting pelting him with balls and he just lay there....
We have all been looking at him through different lenses, even big brother (four years old) has seemed much gentler and more tolerant with him to mum and me, perhaps some of his roughness came from his frustration at not being able to communicate and play with him like other two year olds.
One huge positive is that dear daughter discusses it all with us and welcomes the research and information I pass on to her, I try to not overload her so as yet have only printed off http://www.ndcs.org.uk/family_support/understanding_your_childs_hearing_tests/index.html which neatly explains all the likely tests for deafness in young children. She obviously read it thoroughly as she mentioned the one sentence that mentions preauricular pits, little holes just like little angel has just in front of his ears - further research (googling) found that "Infants with preauricular skin tags or ear pits are at increased risk for permanent hearing impairment" so hopefully this will be a big clue to his diagnosis and treatment options.
Guess to feel sad is utterly normal after such a heavy week with all the mixed emotions that the doctor's initial diagnosis of deafness for little Angel brings into our lives. We took them to a soft play yesterday afternoon and while the eldest got busy socialising and playing chasing and jumping games little angel toddled around doing his own two year old things, mostly involving balls. Granddad nearly wept though when he lay down in the football area and two older children starting pelting him with balls and he just lay there....
We have all been looking at him through different lenses, even big brother (four years old) has seemed much gentler and more tolerant with him to mum and me, perhaps some of his roughness came from his frustration at not being able to communicate and play with him like other two year olds.
One huge positive is that dear daughter discusses it all with us and welcomes the research and information I pass on to her, I try to not overload her so as yet have only printed off http://www.ndcs.org.uk/family_support/understanding_your_childs_hearing_tests/index.html which neatly explains all the likely tests for deafness in young children. She obviously read it thoroughly as she mentioned the one sentence that mentions preauricular pits, little holes just like little angel has just in front of his ears - further research (googling) found that "Infants with preauricular skin tags or ear pits are at increased risk for permanent hearing impairment" so hopefully this will be a big clue to his diagnosis and treatment options.
Friday 1 November 2013
A visit to the doctors...
Facing a new, extremely challenging, situation in our family life. It would appear that our youngest grandsons slowness to develop in speaking may be due to him being profoundly deaf. I am so pleased that daughter made an appointment to ask for developmental tests (long story why these been missed) and asked me to go with them. Poor boy didn't even flinch when doc made very loud noises right behind him.
Anyway, it is the start of making sure he gets the best treatment and therapies and as DD and I are very close, she asks for advice often, and we look after the boys three times a week, I will be calling on my inner strength to support them through whatever comes next after diagnosis ...
Having Gransnet editor-ing to do should help keep me sane along with mindfulness and meditation though any tips on grand parenting in such a situation gratefully received.
Anyway, it is the start of making sure he gets the best treatment and therapies and as DD and I are very close, she asks for advice often, and we look after the boys three times a week, I will be calling on my inner strength to support them through whatever comes next after diagnosis ...
Having Gransnet editor-ing to do should help keep me sane along with mindfulness and meditation though any tips on grand parenting in such a situation gratefully received.
Thursday 24 October 2013
4 year-old is a bully! Help!
4 year-old is a bully! Help!
Oh dear, DD has just asked for my help with a situation just like the one outlined in this article, off to tightrope balance in a few minutes and hopefully she will not transfer her upset with the situation onto me....
Oh dear, DD has just asked for my help with a situation just like the one outlined in this article, off to tightrope balance in a few minutes and hopefully she will not transfer her upset with the situation onto me....
Tuesday 22 October 2013
10 ways to beat CryptoLocker | Money | The Guardian
Beware this new online scam, you really can lose all your photos, files etc
A few sensible precautions will help minimise the chances of a CrytoLocker attack. So what are our top tips?
• Back up your files. If you use an external hard drive, don't leave it connected to your PC unless you are backing up. Alternatively, pay for an online back-up service – but bear in mind you may still be vulnerable if your backed-up files are mapped as a network drive. Check with your provider if you are unsure.
• Create files in the Cloud and upload photos to online accounts like Flickr or Picasa.
• Switch to a spam- and virus-filtered email service. Google Mail, for example, does not allow you to receive or send executable files (that can install viruses) as email attachments, even if they are hidden in zip files. (It also does not allow you to send them).
• Don't go to online porn sites, which are often the source of malware downloads. Take care when clicking on adverts; never open Twitter links and attachments from people you don't know or trust.
• Make sure your operating system is up-to-date with the latest security.
• Install the latest versions of your internet browsers and update add-ons such as Java and Adobe Flash.
• Get reputable anti-virus software and ensure you update it frequently.
• On Windows 7, double-check that you have set up System Restore points or, if you are using Windows 8, configure it to keep the "file history".
• Act quickly. If you do accidentally download a dodgy attachment, bear in mind it is likely to take some time for the encryption to take place. If you immediately download and run an anti-virus programme, such as the free anti-virus toolkit available from Sophos, it could destroy the CryptoLocker before all your files have been encrypted – however, you will permanently lose affected files.
• Encrypt the files you particularly want to keep private, such as documents containing your passwords or personal information, to prevent criminals from reading what's in them. Read this useful "Ask Jack" post on the Guardian technology blog to find out more about encrypting your files.
10 ways to beat CryptoLocker | Money | The Guardian
A few sensible precautions will help minimise the chances of a CrytoLocker attack. So what are our top tips?
• Back up your files. If you use an external hard drive, don't leave it connected to your PC unless you are backing up. Alternatively, pay for an online back-up service – but bear in mind you may still be vulnerable if your backed-up files are mapped as a network drive. Check with your provider if you are unsure.
• Create files in the Cloud and upload photos to online accounts like Flickr or Picasa.
• Switch to a spam- and virus-filtered email service. Google Mail, for example, does not allow you to receive or send executable files (that can install viruses) as email attachments, even if they are hidden in zip files. (It also does not allow you to send them).
• Don't go to online porn sites, which are often the source of malware downloads. Take care when clicking on adverts; never open Twitter links and attachments from people you don't know or trust.
• Make sure your operating system is up-to-date with the latest security.
• Install the latest versions of your internet browsers and update add-ons such as Java and Adobe Flash.
• Get reputable anti-virus software and ensure you update it frequently.
• On Windows 7, double-check that you have set up System Restore points or, if you are using Windows 8, configure it to keep the "file history".
• Act quickly. If you do accidentally download a dodgy attachment, bear in mind it is likely to take some time for the encryption to take place. If you immediately download and run an anti-virus programme, such as the free anti-virus toolkit available from Sophos, it could destroy the CryptoLocker before all your files have been encrypted – however, you will permanently lose affected files.
• Encrypt the files you particularly want to keep private, such as documents containing your passwords or personal information, to prevent criminals from reading what's in them. Read this useful "Ask Jack" post on the Guardian technology blog to find out more about encrypting your files.
10 ways to beat CryptoLocker | Money | The Guardian
Saturday 19 October 2013
Loneliness and North Yorkshire | Gransnet Local
Writing as North Yorkshire | Gransnet Local I urge you to spread the word about Gransnet Local and help us combat loneliness, it is not an overstatement to say that loneliness kills.
This excellent blog post Loneliness | Abetternhs's Blog depicts an all too frequent scenario at a doctor's surgery then details key facts about loneliness and isolation, giving many research sources.
Personally, I have experienced different types of loneliness at different stages of my life. As a very young child I often felt like a cuckoo in the nest, especially when mother appeared most often to side with my sister. One example occurred on my 4th birthday, I recall having my hands heavily bandaged having fallen while carrying a milk bottle full of water from the outside drain for a pretend picnic, drain water because mother refused to give me any juice from inside. Having those bandages removed was agony as they were left on so long they had to be soaked and then peeled away.
Back to the birthday party, mother had hidden lots of threads off multi-coloured wool around the garden, the winner of the game to be the child who found the most, which I did so big sister promptly accused me of having cheated by watching out of the window while the threads were spread around. Mother agreed straight away and gave big sis the prize. The feelings outrage, isolation and injustice I felt as I knew I had not cheated have probably never left me and that plus many other events where I was excluded or denigrated contributed to a later period of total estrangment from mother and sister. What a poor lonely drab thing I felt then.
Even deeper was the period following mother and fathers divorce which coincided with big sis leaving for university and breaking up with the boy I thought was my first love. Later during a violent marriage our bed was the loneliest place you could imagine. Then later in my thirties came chronic illness - probably the most physically isolating cause of loneliness for me (even though I met my partner during that period) but also the period during which I think I have grown the most personally partly through learning to live with the limitations of my illness and partly through coming to know many new people through the internet and getting back in touch with some old friends. For me the internet is a priceless lifeline.
Yes, I have been depressed to the point of being suicidal but that was before the internet took it's current form and I would hope that the online support I know receive and see others benefitting from might have helped stop me sinking to such despair. I truly did not know what was happening when I became so ill and now see others going through being diagnosed with M.E. and fibromyalgia and the grief and confusion that brings being helped through by support forums.
There are a few of the reasons that I hope Gransnet Local does come to fulfil it's mission of helping combat loneliness and isolation. Anyone is welcome to join and use the forums at Gransnet North Yorkshire so please drop by for a chat about anything from local issues to your experiences as a grandparent and anything inbetween.
This excellent blog post Loneliness | Abetternhs's Blog depicts an all too frequent scenario at a doctor's surgery then details key facts about loneliness and isolation, giving many research sources.
Personally, I have experienced different types of loneliness at different stages of my life. As a very young child I often felt like a cuckoo in the nest, especially when mother appeared most often to side with my sister. One example occurred on my 4th birthday, I recall having my hands heavily bandaged having fallen while carrying a milk bottle full of water from the outside drain for a pretend picnic, drain water because mother refused to give me any juice from inside. Having those bandages removed was agony as they were left on so long they had to be soaked and then peeled away.
Back to the birthday party, mother had hidden lots of threads off multi-coloured wool around the garden, the winner of the game to be the child who found the most, which I did so big sister promptly accused me of having cheated by watching out of the window while the threads were spread around. Mother agreed straight away and gave big sis the prize. The feelings outrage, isolation and injustice I felt as I knew I had not cheated have probably never left me and that plus many other events where I was excluded or denigrated contributed to a later period of total estrangment from mother and sister. What a poor lonely drab thing I felt then.
Even deeper was the period following mother and fathers divorce which coincided with big sis leaving for university and breaking up with the boy I thought was my first love. Later during a violent marriage our bed was the loneliest place you could imagine. Then later in my thirties came chronic illness - probably the most physically isolating cause of loneliness for me (even though I met my partner during that period) but also the period during which I think I have grown the most personally partly through learning to live with the limitations of my illness and partly through coming to know many new people through the internet and getting back in touch with some old friends. For me the internet is a priceless lifeline.
Yes, I have been depressed to the point of being suicidal but that was before the internet took it's current form and I would hope that the online support I know receive and see others benefitting from might have helped stop me sinking to such despair. I truly did not know what was happening when I became so ill and now see others going through being diagnosed with M.E. and fibromyalgia and the grief and confusion that brings being helped through by support forums.
There are a few of the reasons that I hope Gransnet Local does come to fulfil it's mission of helping combat loneliness and isolation. Anyone is welcome to join and use the forums at Gransnet North Yorkshire so please drop by for a chat about anything from local issues to your experiences as a grandparent and anything inbetween.
Thursday 17 October 2013
School run time
Where on earth has the morning gone? Got to get ready for the school run and being with the grandsons until 6pm...
Tuesday 15 October 2013
Social media, Gransnet North Yorkshire and social inclusion
I am going briefly discuss social media, the benefits of digital inclusion and Gransnet specifically. Tim Berners Lee, the inventor of the world wide web saw it’s potential as something much more than a tool for commerce, research or communication; rather it is a new way of thinking and a means to greater freedom and social growth than ever before possible.
Social Media: Are online websites that allow anyone to join and communicate with other website users, the five key elements of social media are: participation, openness, conversation, community & connectedness.
While there are some risks inherent in online social networking, often exaggerated by the mainstream media, there are many more potential benefits. Social networking can provide opportunities for new relationships as well as strengthening existing relationships, whether your family and friends are close to home or across the world. Facebook is probably the best known, then Twitter & there thousands more based on different interests or locations.
For example Facebook was a huge help when my daughter and family lived in Greece. We would chat firstly via Facebook chat by typing messages, we could also share photos and play Scrabble. later on Skype became available with free video calls To the eldest grandson I was mostly nana in the computer but I have no doubt that the daily contact and interaction we had via Skype contributed to the strong relationship with him now that they live nearby. First grandson arrived early and unable to change my flight daughter was in contact with me right up to the actual moment of birth, an amazing experience made possible by technology and social networks.
The Gransnet local forums are another form of social media and form the local face of Gransnet.com which is the largest social networking site for Britain's 14 million grandparents and follows in the footsteps of the hugely popular Mumsnet. It was launched in May 2011 and its forums cover news, culture, health, relationships, learning, food, gardening, memories and more. Forum discussions range from ageism in the NHS to coping with daughters-in-law; from childhood sweets and games to recovering from betrayal; from what the government should do about social care to the joys of winter.
Gransnet editor Geraldine Bedell added: "Our members have already started meeting up of their own accord and local sites will make that much easier. Occasionally in the past our members have admitted to sometimes feeling lonely and they love the way the site connects them to others. Gransnet Local will extend the support and friendship we offer online into meet-ups and will provide a forum to discuss everything that's going on locally."
So the local network aims to spread the established benefits of Gransnet into local communities, reaching out to those who are not yet online and giving them a fun reason (and helping them) to get connected. By offering peer-to-peer advice and friendship, Gransnet Local will help to pull together people who might otherwise feel cut off, helping to give them a voice in their community. The site aims to reduce loneliness among older people and to showcase the advantages of digital inclusion.
The local forums on Gransnet are a place to meet like-minded local people, exchange views and swap experiences and stories and hopefully join in our meet-ups. You'll need to register as a Gransnet member to post messages on the forums, but after that you can talk about whatever you like.
To conclude I would like to quote Harry Leslie Smith theguardian.com who says “Being online aged 90 has made my old age less lonely. Others aren't so lucky..
As grief over my wife and son eased, I wanted to join the land of the living. I wish more seniors could reap the benefits I have… Being connected to the internet opens up new vistas for its users. It can bring the planet and all its wonders to your laptop. It allows you to interact with so many interesting people, but always from a safe distance. As you age, your health and mobility may become impaired, so having the opportunity and the finances to get online makes life less lonesome. It can make you more engaged with your community and your family. It is as important as having a telephone, a stable bank account and a bus pass. All of those elements and access to a computer can make your senior years more pleasant and worthwhile.”
Meeting and interacting with new friends on & offline has never been so available and be an invaluable sorce of support during difficult times and great fun the rest of the time.
http://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2013/may/17/online-aged-90-less-lonely?CMP=twt_gu
Google: Harry Leslie Smith theguardian.com
Harry Leslie Smith is a survivor of the Great Depression, a second world war RAF veteran and at 90 an activist for the poor and for the preservation of social democracy. He has authored numerous books about Britain during the Great Depression, the second world war and postwar austerity
Social Media: Are online websites that allow anyone to join and communicate with other website users, the five key elements of social media are: participation, openness, conversation, community & connectedness.
While there are some risks inherent in online social networking, often exaggerated by the mainstream media, there are many more potential benefits. Social networking can provide opportunities for new relationships as well as strengthening existing relationships, whether your family and friends are close to home or across the world. Facebook is probably the best known, then Twitter & there thousands more based on different interests or locations.
For example Facebook was a huge help when my daughter and family lived in Greece. We would chat firstly via Facebook chat by typing messages, we could also share photos and play Scrabble. later on Skype became available with free video calls To the eldest grandson I was mostly nana in the computer but I have no doubt that the daily contact and interaction we had via Skype contributed to the strong relationship with him now that they live nearby. First grandson arrived early and unable to change my flight daughter was in contact with me right up to the actual moment of birth, an amazing experience made possible by technology and social networks.
The Gransnet local forums are another form of social media and form the local face of Gransnet.com which is the largest social networking site for Britain's 14 million grandparents and follows in the footsteps of the hugely popular Mumsnet. It was launched in May 2011 and its forums cover news, culture, health, relationships, learning, food, gardening, memories and more. Forum discussions range from ageism in the NHS to coping with daughters-in-law; from childhood sweets and games to recovering from betrayal; from what the government should do about social care to the joys of winter.
Gransnet editor Geraldine Bedell added: "Our members have already started meeting up of their own accord and local sites will make that much easier. Occasionally in the past our members have admitted to sometimes feeling lonely and they love the way the site connects them to others. Gransnet Local will extend the support and friendship we offer online into meet-ups and will provide a forum to discuss everything that's going on locally."
So the local network aims to spread the established benefits of Gransnet into local communities, reaching out to those who are not yet online and giving them a fun reason (and helping them) to get connected. By offering peer-to-peer advice and friendship, Gransnet Local will help to pull together people who might otherwise feel cut off, helping to give them a voice in their community. The site aims to reduce loneliness among older people and to showcase the advantages of digital inclusion.
The local forums on Gransnet are a place to meet like-minded local people, exchange views and swap experiences and stories and hopefully join in our meet-ups. You'll need to register as a Gransnet member to post messages on the forums, but after that you can talk about whatever you like.
To conclude I would like to quote Harry Leslie Smith theguardian.com who says “Being online aged 90 has made my old age less lonely. Others aren't so lucky..
As grief over my wife and son eased, I wanted to join the land of the living. I wish more seniors could reap the benefits I have… Being connected to the internet opens up new vistas for its users. It can bring the planet and all its wonders to your laptop. It allows you to interact with so many interesting people, but always from a safe distance. As you age, your health and mobility may become impaired, so having the opportunity and the finances to get online makes life less lonesome. It can make you more engaged with your community and your family. It is as important as having a telephone, a stable bank account and a bus pass. All of those elements and access to a computer can make your senior years more pleasant and worthwhile.”
Meeting and interacting with new friends on & offline has never been so available and be an invaluable sorce of support during difficult times and great fun the rest of the time.
http://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2013/may/17/online-aged-90-less-lonely?CMP=twt_gu
Google: Harry Leslie Smith theguardian.com
Harry Leslie Smith is a survivor of the Great Depression, a second world war RAF veteran and at 90 an activist for the poor and for the preservation of social democracy. He has authored numerous books about Britain during the Great Depression, the second world war and postwar austerity
Saturday 12 October 2013
Fracking In North Yorkshire? | Gransnet Local - North Yorkshire |
Which would you rather see in North Yorkshire, fracking or alternative renewable sources developed?
Fracking In North Yorkshire? | Gransnet Local North Yorkshire | Grandparents forum - talk to other grandparents
Fracking In North Yorkshire? | Gransnet Local North Yorkshire | Grandparents forum - talk to other grandparents
Friday 11 October 2013
Talking to myself..
on Facebook at the moment.
I asked myself:
"Why do some men start wearing Farrah style slacks & zip up windcheaters usually in poo brown or fawn and some women to crimplene outfits for example which instantly denote that one is, how shall I put it, a little past middle age?"
I once had a passing fancy that the older women on the bus were wearing headscarves because they had such hectic sex lives once family caring duties were over that they had no time to do their hair, guess now it is because they have more caring duties than ever before. Anyway, back on topic why do you think some people seem to give up on how they look?
Autumn days, grandsons and colds
Darling daughter (DD), son-in-law (SONIL) and dearest grandson (DGS) arrived home from a very rainy holiday in Greece (where they lived until last October) on the coldest day of the autumn so far whereas it had been t-shirt weather until Wednesday.
She certainly didn't look a happy bunny when she knocked on the door at 8am for the car keys - at SONIL's request as youngest DGS had her up all night as he has a cold and SONIL believes being out in the cold and wind causes colds - she reckoned there is no arguing with him even though like me she doesn't agree with that view or with using the car for a 5 minute walk each way... kept lips buttoned when he returned the keys as it is not worth getting into the middle of their disputes unless someone's well being is seriously at risk.
When would you get involved (if ever)? I usually only get involved when directly asked for advice but always try to not play the blame game and remain neutral, not easy but meditation and mindfulness help. Ommmmmmmmmmmm
Wednesday 9 October 2013
North Yorkshire Weather
Fabulous weather so far today here in North Yorkshire DD has told me that it is still raining on Zante with thunder and lightening thrown in for good measure so bad that she says she is really looking forward to getting home tomorrow, I cannot wait to see them and especially the grandsons. Hope the weather didn't spoil the holiday too much for the grandkids but kids are much more resilient and flexible when it comes to the weather don't you think?
Tuesday 8 October 2013
Fracking the North Yorkshire Dales & National Parks
Did you know that DRILLING licences have already been issued for possible 'fracking' in the region?
Gas companies have been awarded a dozen licences for shale gas in the North-East and North Yorkshire, mainly in constituencies held by Coalition MPs.
If you live in and/or love the North York Moors and surrounding areas what do you think about them being fracked?
More information and discussion thread here:
What does this mean for the future and or children's and grandchildren's quality of life?
Saturday 5 October 2013
Missing the grandsons...
..but enjoying the free time and peace. Have to wonder what state of mind DD will return in after spending a week on holiday back where they lived on a Greek island until there move here a year ago. They have seemed pretty settled recently and am not sure I could handle the inner turmoil if they decide to move away again as they did in 2011 - they came back Xmas 2010 but the day before mothers day 2011 DD told me they were going back to Greece, it was just like a punch to my stomach followed by a long period of grieving...tbc
Tuesday 24 September 2013
Becoming a Nana
Of course I had known for almost 9 months that I was going to become a nana on xxth Sept 2009, neither the time nor that knowledge prepared me for the physical feelings of love that all but overwhelmed me when I first held our first grandson.
Four years on being a nana to two gorgeous boys still rates as amongst the very best aspects of my life ...tbc
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