MPs set to back law for right to see a grandchild
GRANDPARENTS could be given the legal right to see their grandchildren if the parents split up, under new plans being considered by ministers.
The ruling would allow grandparents access after a marriage break-up, death in the family or another reason that could see their chances to see their grandchildren denied.
MPs are backing an amendment to the Children’s Act which would refer to a youngster’s right to have a relationship with close members of their extended family.
This could also include aunts and uncles having access to their nephews and nieces.
Currently a relative must apply to a court for access rights and then for a child arrangement order to be put into place, which costs legal fees.
The issue was debated in the House of Commons last week, with Tory MP Nigel Huddleston saying that he had heard of grandparents who tried to send birthday cards or Christmas gifts to their grandchildren and found themselves being visited by the police and accused of harassment.
He said: “Divorce and family breakdown can take an emotional toll on all involved, but the family dynamic that is all too often overlooked is that between grandparents and their grandchildren.”
The move has been backed by TV presenter and campaigner Dame Esther Rantzen.
She said: “It’s a relationship that matters so much and I have heard tragic stories of grandparents forced to try to prove there is a relationship.
“The law needs to recognise this relationship.”
Justice minister Lucy Frazer has reportedly said she would consider a change in the law. She said: “It is clear the system could work better.”