Published on Wednesday, 4 December 2013 at 12:00:00 AM
Applications opened on 2 December for the Grandcarers Support Scheme, which will offer financial assistance to an estimated 2,500 grandparents who care full-time for an estimated 4,000 grandchildren. Every eligible grandparent who applies will receive financial support through this scheme
“Grandcarers make tremendous sacrifices, especially in rural and remote regions, where child support and family services are limited. They often have to change their plans for the future to look after their grandchildren,” said Mr Vince Catania, member for North West Central.
“After raising their own children, some grandparents take on the demanding and costly role of caring for their grandchildren full-time. I urge you to apply for the funding - a $400 payment for the first child under 16 and $250 each for other children, to help buy books and uniforms for the new school year.”
A further $100,000 has been awarded to Wanslea Family Services - the community organisation administering the grandcarers scheme - to expand its range of support services including respite, an information line and nine support groups across WA.
This community initiative is part of a suite of new arrangements to support older West Australians, who make up a growing percentage of the population. Those who receive Department for Child Protection and Family Support foster carer funding are not eligible.
For further information, visit the Wanslea website at http://www.wanslea.asn.au or phone 1800 794 909.
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