Grandparents caring for key worker children

[Russell19]

A friend told me yesterday that her mum (aged under 70) is still coming over to their house each day to look after her 2 children (one pre school age and one 7).

They are both keyworkers but not front line.

I don't know why but at first it didn't sit right with me, I know IABU because I have a really close relationship with my mum and haven't seen her for 2 weeks so I think it's touched a nerve. I also have a baby so to have my family not close by is a massive thing.

Just doesn't make sense to be putting your whole family, children and parents at risk but what is the other option? What are other people doing?

No one is saying it's easy but the rules are there for a reason and they say don't mix households. There is a thread about a woman allowing her boyfriend to stay some nights and everyone was up in arms. This is the same thing. Your children are doubly at risk because everyone they come in to contact with is a frontline worker.

Rosebel what is difficult for you to understand about this current situation?

By definition, key worker roles are considered essential. If they have don't have access to childcare at the moment, then they need to source appropriate provision, as these individuals need to continue working.

Yes, we've been advised not to mix with family and friends outside of our immediate household, but the problem is much more complex.

No this is not advisable. Even though there have been some young deaths , children are way way less at risk than grandparents, They can carry it

As long as these people can live with themselves for not following rules (especially those looking after the ‘golden grandkids’ - as totally unnecessary, just easier for parents working at home). I’m happy to follow the rules. I said to a friend this morning who asked why she can’t have her grandkids a week at a time if under 18’s can go to other parent. I said because that’s different. But I also said if your grandchild got infected because you didn’t follow the rules could you live with yourself? Answer was no. So I hope she doesn’t. Problem is her daughter puts pressure on her as she’s got 3 under 6’s in a flat