Understand
74-year-old great-grandmother becomes kinship carer to save her great-granddaughters from care
Overview
Valerie, a 74-year-old woman from Somerset, became a kinship carer for her two great-granddaughters after her daughter died suddenly, preventing the children from entering the care system. Despite facing challenges, financial worries, and criticism from some friends, Valerie stated that taking the girls in has brought her joy, purpose, and adventures. She has been supported by Somerset Council's kinship team during the process.
Key points
- Valerie, 74, became the primary carer for her two great-granddaughters following the sudden death of her daughter.
- She stepped in to prevent the children from going into care, committing to look after them until they are 18.
- Valerie admitted that returning to parenting in her seventies has been scary and challenging, and that she lost two friends who criticised her decision.
- She has received vital support from Somerset Council's kinship team and her case worker, Charlotte Stiles.
- Valerie chose to share her story during Kinship Care Week to highlight the important role kinship carers play in communities.