My name is ElizabethDaye, and I am a proud grandparent raising five wonderful grandchildren, all of whom have disabilities. As rewarding as it is, this journey is fraught with challenges, especially financial ones. The current rules regarding Universal Credit (UC) in the UK dictate that grandparents like myself cannot continue to claim UC after reaching pension age, even while we are still the primary caregivers for young children. This policy will leave me with only a pension and possibly some housing benefit to support my family, plunging us into financial hardship and poverty.

Raising grandchildren is a labour of love, but it comes with the immense responsibility of providing not only emotional support but also financial stability. The welfare system must recognise the unique position of grandparent carers. According to a 2019 study by the charity Grandparents Plus, there are over 200,000 children in the UK being raised by grandparents. Many of these families are at risk of falling into poverty due to outdated benefit rules that do not account for the financial realities faced by older carers. Grandparents are stepping in to keep children out of the care system, saving the government substantial costs and ensuring the well-being of these vulnerable children.

The solution is clear and actionable: amend the Universal Credit regulations to allow grandparents who are primary carers to continue receiving UC beyond pension age, as long as they have dependents under 18 years of age. Such a change would provide financial stability and security, allowing grandparents to continue their invaluable role without the constant worry of financial insecurity. It's a change that would alleviate stress, support family unity, and ultimately save public funds by keeping children out of alternative care systems.

Supporting this cause means advocating for the respect and acknowledgement grandparents deserve as primary caregivers. It means recognising their sacrifices and contributions and ensuring that they are not forced into poverty while they provide a loving home for their grandchildren.

I'm calling on policymakers and authorities to recognise this pressing need and act swiftly to make these changes. Please join me in urging the UK government to reconsider and revise these outdated regulations. Sign this petition to support grandparents raising grandchildren and help us ensure a better future for our families.