Letter: Grandchild's rights
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Sir: I Collins (letters, 22 August) asks, "When will there be legal rights for grandchildren and grandparents to have contact?"
Surprisingly, perhaps, these are already contained within the Children Act, 1989.
In reality, the judiciary generally believe that this contact should take place complementary to that of the non-resident parent. Also, contact is often not adequately enforced by the courts, who shy from using the sanctions available within the Act.
Grandparents could qualify for legal aid if their income amounts to little more than the state pension. In addition they could consider representing themselves in the family courts.
Families Need Fathers have a significant grandparent membership and would be able to offer assistance.
JOHN BEALE
London N6
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments