‘We all pull together to do what’s needed’

FAMILY SUPPORT NETWORK

Jane Bailey, 62, divides her time between working for her family’s garage services business and providing wrap-around childcare for her younger daughter Sophie’s two children, who are two and five. She used to provide similar childcare for her elder daughter Emma’s two children, but now supports Emma’s family by paying for family meals out, treating them to family holidays and putting a weekly pocket money allowance into the children’s Gohenry accounts. Both daughters also work part-time for the family business.

‘I’m a strong believer in trying to help your grown-up children while you’re still alive, rather than leaving things in your will, as you then get to see them enjoy life,’ says Jane. ‘We all pull together to do what’s needed – sometimes Emma has the youngest two or buys things for all four children. Both girls contribute to the future of the business in their own way and, in doing so, help secure their own financial futures.’

‘Growing up, money was scarce, and I remember my mum working tirelessly and taking on multiple jobs,’ says Emma, 36. ‘Through hard work, my parents built a successful business, improving our financial situation, and now my mum generously provides for the family and grandchildren. Inspired by her dedication, I prioritise savings over loans – apart from my mortgage, which I secured at 20,’ adds Emma.

‘If my mum didn’t help with childcare, I wouldn’t be able to work,’ says Sophie, 28. ‘My daughter is at nursery for two days, which is already a stretch financially, but without my mum (and my mother-in-law), I wouldn’t be able to manage.’