Help for grandparents prevented from seeing grandchildren

The Family Law Company in Exeter is holding a free seminar to support grandparents who currently have no access to their grandchildren.

Director Stephen Sowden, the firm’s grandparent specialist and a trustee of the Grandparents Association, will be leading the seminar at Oriel House on November 6 from 1.30 to 4pm.

“Grandparents lose contact with their grandchildren for a number of reasons,” explained Stephen.

“Sometimes this is because they become estranged from the parents, or one of the parents, their own child, dies. Whatever the reason, grandparents often experience grief if they lose contact with grandchildren, and even a sense of shame that they aren’t able to talk about them, having no knowledge of their activities.”

The seminar will provide an opportunity for grandparents to discuss what is and isn’t possible within the law and how approaches can be made in order to best facilitate future access. In addition, the seminar will cover mediation, court applications, timescales and what can happen if a grandchild is adopted or fostered.

“This is a sorely neglected area of family law, and one that I feel needs more attention,” Stephen added.

“It is tricky as grandparents have no legal rights to see their grandchildren. However, there are a number of routes to follow to help grandparents regain access and it is always a thrill when this happens, bringing much happiness to both grandparents and grandchildren.”

The event is free and afternoon tea will be provided between sessions. For more information or to book a place, email enquiries@thefamilylawco.com