Often the people who lose out most in a separation are the grandparents. They haven't been involved, they're not in the divorce, but they can be left unable to see their grandchildren.
This week Simon Hughes, the Justice Minster, has confirmed in a written parliamentary answer that last year there were seven applications a day by grandparents for a court order to see a grandchild after the divorce or separation of the child's parents.
In law, grandparents sadly have no automatic legal rights. It would be possible to seek permission to apply for a Contact Order to see the grandchildren, but this in itself would have to be put before the court. If successful, a Contact Order can then be sought, in which it could be stipulated how often the grandparents would have direct contact (e.g. visits) and indirect contact (e.g. letters, videos etc). The courts are mindful of the positive impact grandparents can have on children, but are also unwilling to cause further disruption to family relationships.
Legal Aid is no longer available for grandparents, so many just walk away and lose contact. However, we are able to help and it needn't cost the earth.
If you are a grandparent who feels they are losing, or have lost contact with a grandchild, do give us a ring. We now have a weekly clinic where you can ask for FREE advice to do with families, children, separation and divorce. We really can help. Ring us on 029 2039 5888 for further details.
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