Search our existing Support Groups

Search our existing Support Groups

Last Updated on Thursday, 09 May 2013 15:30

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STOP PRESS:

Harlow: We are looking at the need for a carer’s group in Harlow and have booked a room at Moot House on the 17th September for a drop-in for grandparent carers. It will be from 11am to 2pm contact grant.reyland@grandparents-association.org.uk if you are interested in attending or call 01279 428040.
Leicester: Could you help to jointly run a group in Leicester? We have been approached to set up a 'no contact' support group in Leicester, but the grandparent needs some help. If you are interested please contact judith.howells@grandparents-association.org.uk . We also have a number of other areas across the U.K. where groups could be set up, if people would offer to jointly run a group. You can register your interest with judith.howells@grandparents-association.org.uk

We have now expanded the information available about support groups for grandparents. Our groups support grandparents with care responsibilities, or those with no contact with grandchildren, as well as grandparents with childcare responsibilities seeking a grandparent and toddler group. We hope you find a group that suits you.

We are currently surveying local authorities and others to find out what help is out there and hope to give you a much more comprehensive list soon.

To help you know more about groups, we have devised a number of icons:

	This stamp means the Grandparents’ Association (GPA) sees this group as one that delivers best practice. GPA oversees the running of these groups and is a point of contact for information. All GPA groups have leaders with enhanced CRBs where children attend; insurance policies are in place; and premises are regularly checked to ensure they continue to meet H&S standards. To find out more about becoming a GPA group. Contact judith.howells@grandparents-association.org.uk
	If you see this stamp , the group is an affiliate Grandparents’ Association group. This means it maintains a level of contact with us to enhance how they run their group. They may have received help from us or have had information packs to help with their set up. Please note that we are unable to guarantee that they have current documentation in place. Find out more about becoming an affilated group. Contact judith.howells@grandparents-association.org.uk
	This stamp means a group has asked us to feature them on our site. This also includes some groups which we may have been involved with early on in their development, and which run independently now. We recommend that before attending one of these groups, you may wish to check they have the appropriate CRB's and insurance. Groups who would like to feature on this site: Contact gill.perks@grandparents-association.org.uk
	Are you interested in setting up or running a group? supportgroups@grandparents-association.org.uk
	If you cannot find anything in your area you can try your local Family Information Service.


	PLACE	DETAILS
	BEDS
	Milton Keynes	TYPE OF GROUP: Carer Group GROUP STATUS: INDEPENDENT MEETING VENUE: Kents Hill Community Centre, Firth Wood Crescent, Kents Hill, Milton Keynes, HK7 6HQ MEETING DAYS: Tuesdays weekly in term time MEETING TIMES: 10-12 LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Karon LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 01525 753422 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: grandparent.sg@ntlworld.com www.grandparentsupportgroup.org.uk

	BERKS
	Windsor	TYPE OF GROUP: Carers Group GROUP STATUS: AFFILIATED MEETING VENUE: Upton and King Edward VII Hospital MEETING DAYS: MEETING TIMES: LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Sally Silbey LOCAL CONTACT TEL:01753 635253 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: sally.silbey@berkshire.nhs.uk

	BUCKS
	Bucks Aylesbury Weston Turville	TYPE OF GROUP: Contact Issue Group GROUP STATUS: GPA MEETING VENUE: Holiday Inn, Aston Clinton Road, Aylesbury, HP22 5QT MEETING DAYS: Second Wednesday monthly MEETING TIMES 7-9pm LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Suzanne LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 01296 582614 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Thriving active group with regular speakers. suzanneviora@hotmail.com

	Aylesbury	TYPE OF GROUP: Grandparent & Toddlers* GROUP STATUS: GPA MEETING VENUE: Aylesbury Elmhurst Children's Centre Dunsham Lane, Aylesbury, HP20 2DB MEETING DAYS: Tuesdays MEETING TIMES: 10.00 - 11.45 LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Laura/Ann LOCAL CONTACT TEL:Laura 07901515584/ Liz 01269 383207 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: *Carers with under 5's All grandparent carers welcome. Come for a coffe and have a chance to chat with other grandparents. Weekly organised activities for the children. Opportunity to discuss any issues and regular speakers attend the group.
	Aylesbury	TYPE OF GROUP: Grandparent & Toddlers* GROUP STATUS: GPA MEETING VENUE: Oakfield and Bedgrove Children's centre, Broughton Infant school, Narberth Drive, Aylesbury, Bucks. HP20 1NX MEETING DAYS: Mondays Term time. MEETING TIMES: 9.15 -10.45 a.m. LOCAL CONTACT NAME: LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 01269 423542 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: obbchildrenscentre@buckscc.gov.uk

	CAMBS
	Cambridge	TYPE OF GROUP: Carer Group GROUP STATUS: AFFILIATED MEETING VENUE: MEETING DAYS: MEETING TIMES: LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Annabel Roberts LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 01223 411923 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: This group is supported by local agencies and services. The leader is a grandparent carer. Group offers opportunity to meet other grandparent carers and to receive support and advice.

	Peterborough	TYPE OF GROUP: Carers Group GROUP STATUS: INDEPENDENT MEETING VENUE: MEETING DAYS: MEETING TIMES: LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Chris Leaves LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 01733 751531 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Contact Chris for local information.

	Cambridgeshire	We have contacts willing to help with one off events. Contact Judith for details Do you have an idea for an event or can you assist with helping raise money for the GPA?

	Oakham Rutland	TYPE OF GROUP: Carers Group GROUP STATUS: INDEPENDENT MEETING VENUE: MEETING DAYS: MEETING TIMES: LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Chris Leaves LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 01733 751531 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Contact Chris for local information.

	St Neots	TYPE OF GROUP: Grandparent & Toddler Group GROUP STATUS: INDEPENDENT MEETING VENUE: Eaton Childrens Centre, Bushmead School, Bushmead Road, Eaton Socon, St Neots, PE19 8BT MEETING DAYS: Tuesdays MEETING TIMES: 1.30pm -3.30pm LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Lisa Randle LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 01480 358340 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

	CHESHIRE
	Seacombe Childrens Centre	TYPE OF GROUP: Carer support group. GROUP STATUS: GPA MEETING VENUE: Oasis Church Centre, Wallesey, Cheshire CH44 7AN MEETING DAYS: MEETING TIMES: LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Kath McEvoy LOCAL CONTACT TEL:01516664949 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Strong local network of groups. The group provides a structured series of sessions and additional advice and support. Trips are run for the carers and grandchildren.

	Birkenhead and Tranmere Children’s centre	TYPE OF GROUP: Carer support group. GROUP STATUS: GPA MEETING VENUE: St Werburghs Catholic Primary School, Park Grove, Birkenhead, CH41 2TD MEETING DAYS: MEETING TIMES: LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Kath McEvoy LOCAL CONTACT TEL:01516664949 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Strong local network of groups. The group provides a structured series of sessions and additional advice and support. Trips are run for the carers and grandchildren.

	Ganneys Meadow Early Years Centre	TYPE OF GROUP: Carer support group. GROUP STATUS: GPA MEETING VENUE: New Hey Road, Woodchurch, Wirral, CH49 8HB MEETING DAYS: MEETING TIMES: LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Kath McEvoy LOCAL CONTACT TEL:01516664949 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Strong local network of groups. The group provides a structured series of sessions and additional advice and support. Trips are run for the carers and grandchildren.

	Birkenhead	TYPE OF GROUP: Carer support group. GROUP STATUS: AFFILIATED MEETING VENUE: MEETING DAYS: MEETING TIMES: LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Marylyn LOCAL CONTACT TEL:0151 6457736 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: A grandparent carer runs this group. The group provides a structured series of sessions and additional advice and support. Trips are run for the carers and grandchildren.

	CORNWALL
	Porthleven	Contact Issue Group - Are you interested in starting a group? Contact Judith for details

	Cornwall Network for the South East	Contact Issue Grandparents Volunteers needed to run a group in Torquay In discussion about setting up a group. Contact Judith for details

	CUMBRIA
	Carlisle	TYPE OF GROUP: Carers Group* GROUP STATUS: INDEPENDENT MEETING VENUE:Carlisle West Childrens Centre, Wigton Road, Carlisle CA2 6JP MEETING DAYS: MEETING TIMES: LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Nicola Quinn LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 01228 223417 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: *Second Time Around Group This group is open to those with fulltime care responsibilities. The group also welcomes part tie carers as well.

	DEVON & CORNWALL
		TYPE OF GROUP: Setting up a Network for the South East for contact issue grandparents GROUP STATUS: MEETING VENUE: MEETING DAYS: MEETING TIMES: LOCAL CONTACT NAME: LOCAL CONTACT TEL: ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: The GPA holds a lists of carer grandparents who are now in contact via phone or email in Devon. They have met up for social events with the grandchildren and for support. Contact Judith to find out more.

	Torquay	TYPE OF GROUP: Carer support group GROUP STATUS: AFFILIATED MEETING VENUE: Hele Hub Union Street, Torquay MEETING DAYS: MEETING TIMES: 10.30-12.30pm LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Jackie LOCAL CONTACT TEL: ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Contact Judith for details

	Torquay	TYPE OF GROUP: Grandparent & Toddler Group GROUP STATUS: MEETING VENUE: Echo Childrens Centre, Upton Road, Torquay TQ2 4AZ MEETING DAYS: MEETING TIMES: LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Sonia and Jackie for more details LOCAL CONTACT TEL:0844 3572907 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

	Plymouth Central	TYPE OF GROUP: Carer support group GROUP STATUS: INDEPENDENT MEETING VENUE: Jan Cutting Healthy Living Centre, Scott Business Park, Beacon Park Road, Plymouth PL2 2 PQ. MEETING DAYS: Monthly MEETING TIMES: 11.30am -1pm LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Gordon Rawlins LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 0151 6457736 gordonrawlins963@gmail.com ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: This is a thriving active group offering speakers, support and advice. Buffet supplied. Run by grandparents for grandparents and kinship carers.

	Teignmouth and Dawlish	TYPE OF GROUP: Integrated groups - Childrens Centre GROUP STATUS: AFFILIATED MEETING VENUE: Childrens Centre, Mill Lane,Teignmouth, TQ14 9BQ MEETING DAYS: MEETING TIMES: LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Anne Beadle LOCAL CONTACT TEL:01626 879776 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

	Paignton	Carers Group - Are you interested? Contact Judith for details ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: We have a growing list of grandparent wishing to attend support groups. We require people to help set up the group.

	Exeter	Carers Group - Are you interested? Contact Judith for details ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: We have a growing list of grandparent wishing to attend support groups. We require people to help set up the group.

	DORSET
	Dorchester	TYPE OF GROUP: Contact Issue GROUP STATUS: GPA MEETING VENUE: MEETING DAYS: MEETING TIMES: LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Una LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 01305 268670 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Providing telephone support only for carers and no contact grandparents. This group can sign post to further advice and support.

	Poole	TYPE OF GROUP: Contact support group GROUP STATUS: AFFILIATED MEETING VENUE: Children and Young People Integrated Services, Poole Library, Dolphin Centre, Poole, BH15 1QE MEETING DAYS: Monthly MEETING TIMES: LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Pam Ketteridge LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 01202 261999 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: This group provides speakers and have access to advice and support networks. grandparentliaison@talktalk.net www.boroughofpoole.com/familyinformation

	COUNTY D
	Durham	TYPE OF GROUP: Contact and Carer Group GROUP STATUS: GPA MEETING VENUE: Antioch House, Crossgate, Durham MEETING DAYS: First Monday Monthly MEETING TIMES: 11-1pm LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Claire LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 07514 546340 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Open to all grandparents

	ESSEX
	Braintree	TYPE OF GROUP: Carer support group. GROUP STATUS: INDEPENDENT MEETING VENUE: Seesaw Children’s Centre, Lancaster Way, Braintree, CM7 5UL MEETING DAYS: First and third Thursday of month MEETING TIMES: LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Rachel LOCAL CONTACT TEL:01376 555262 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

	Canvey Island	Grandparent & Toddler Group Lakeview Hall, Winter Garden School Hilton Road Essex Thursdays in term time Time: 9.30am - 11.15am Chris Allwin 01268 691107 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Playtime for children including art work - trying to introduce more tatstes to the children - birthday party monthly. Guest from Council & Learning Centre & Health coming to talk to grandparents. Outings twice a year to socialise and childrens day out. August family day for mum dad and grandparents.

	Clacton on Sea	TYPE OF GROUP: Contact group GROUP STATUS: INDEPENDENT MEETING VENUE: MEETING DAYS: MEETING TIMES: LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Linda LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 01255 420707 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Thsi group was initially established for fathers having difficulty accessing their children. This group has now been opened to grandparents as well.

	Harlow	TYPE OF GROUP: 1-2-1 Appointments only GROUP STATUS: GPA MEETING VENUE: Moot House, Harlow, Essex, CM203AG MEETING DAYS: Appointment only MEETING TIMES: 1/2 sessions LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Grant LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 01279 428040 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: 1/2 hr sessions for specialist advice and support

	Gloucestershire
	Yate	TYPE OF GROUP: Carer Group GROUP STATUS: INDEPENDENT MEETING VENUE: MEETING DAYS: Wednesday MEETING TIMES: 11am-1pm LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Esther Harris LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 07920 744313 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Specialist Group for South Gloucester Drug and Alcohol Service

	GREATER LONDON
	Camden	TYPE OF GROUP: Grandparent Group * (getting into trouble) GROUP STATUS: GPA MEETING VENUE: NW5 4BA MEETING DAYS: Monthly - Day vary MEETING TIMES: 11.30-1.30 LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Natalie LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 02074852901 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: *Specialist Monthly Group for grandparents whose grandchildren are or are beginning to get involved with crime. E.G. From bullying to gang crime, theft or vandalism Refreshment provided

	Camden	TYPE OF GROUP: Grandparent Group * (victims) GROUP STATUS: GPA MEETING VENUE: NW5 4BA MEETING DAYS: Monthly - Days vary MEETING TIMES: 11.30-1.30 LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Natalie LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 02074852901 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: *Specialist Monthly Group for grandparents whose grandchildren are the victims of crime.Has your grandchild been bullied, had their phone stolen, or been attacked?

	Covent Garden	TYPE OF GROUP: Birth grandparent support group for grandparents who have lost their grandchildren to adoption.
		GROUP STATUS: OTHER
		MEETING VENUE: The Swiss Church in London, 79 Endell Street London, WC2H 9DY
		MEETING DAYS: 19th November 2012 18th February 2013 4th March 2013 18th March 2013 1st April 2013
		MEETING TIMES:11am-1pm
		LOCAL CONTACT NAME:Catherine Bennett at After Adoption
		LOCAL CONTACT TEL:on 0207 842 8544 catherinebennett@afteradoption.org.uk
		ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Our pilot support group has been created to address themes of grief and loss and how grandparents can still be a family resource - eg letterbox contact plus more

	Edmonton	TYPE OF GROUP: For all grandparents and Carers GROUP STATUS: GPA MEETING VENUE: Trinity A.M.E.Z Church, Gospatrick Road, London, N17 MEETING DAYS: MEETING TIMES: 1-2.30 LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Mavis LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 0208 807 6424 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: This group provides an open door for all grandparents to come together to offer support, coffee and a chat. Events held and regular speakers. For more information email us.

	Kentish Town	TYPE OF GROUP: Carer Support Group GROUP STATUS: GPA MEETING VENUE: NW5 4BA MEETING DAYS: Monthly MEETING TIMES: 11.30-1.30 LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Natalie LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 02074852901 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Carer grandparents and all kinship carers welcome. Specialist advice and information available and opportunity to meet with others in similar situation. For more information email us

	Kentish Town	TYPE OF GROUP: Contact Issue Group GROUP STATUS: GPA MEETING VENUE: NW5 4BA MEETING DAYS: Monthly MEETING TIMES: 11.30-1.30 LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Natalie LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 02074852901 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: This group offers support, advice and a listening ear.

	NW4	TYPE OF GROUP: Jewish Group for No Contact Grandparents GROUP STATUS: GPA MEETING VENUE: NW4 - Hendon - Jewish Marriage Council Premises MEETING DAYS: Next Meetings: 30th May 11th July 29th August 10th October 5th December MEETING TIMES: 2.00pm - 4/4.30pm LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Lorraine LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 07973 886979 Lorraine 01279 428040 Office (10am-3pm) ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: We are a small friendly group of Jewish grandparents, who are establishing a support group in Hendon. Read about our meeting venue View a map of our meeting venue View some local parking facilities Contact: lorraine@nannies4u.co.uk

	NW5	TYPE OF GROUP: NW5 Surgery for Grandparents/ Contact Issues and Carers GROUP STATUS: GPA MEETING VENUE: NW5 4BA MEETING DAYS: Appointment Only MEETING TIMES: 1-2-1 surgery 1/2hr sessions by appt LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Judith LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 07805959154 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Phone and email contact only. Please call to arrange a suitable time. natalie.henningham@grandparents-association.org.uk

	Walthamstow	TYPE OF GROUP: Carer Group GROUP STATUS: AFFILIATED MEETING VENUE: Higham Hills Children Centre, 313 Billet Road, Walthamstow, E17 5PX MEETING DAYS: MEETING TIMES: LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Jean Woodley LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 02085271737 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: For Grandparents who have full or parttime care of their grandchildren.

	HAMPSHIRE

	Lee on Solent	TYPE OF GROUP: Grandparent & Toddler Group GROUP STATUS: INDEPENDENT MEETING VENUE: Stubblee Children Centre, Elmore Road, Gosport, PO13 9DY MEETING DAYS: Fridays MEETING TIMES: 9.30am - 11.30am LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Pam LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 02392553816 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

	Portsmouth	TYPE OF GROUP: Grandparent & Toddler Group GROUP STATUS: AFFILIATED MEETING VENUE: Paulsgrove Childrens Centre MEETING DAYS: Fridays MEETING TIMES: 10am - 12am LOCAL CONTACT NAME: LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 0239 2385995 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Contact central office for details

	Portsmouth	TYPE OF GROUP: Carer Group GROUP STATUS: GPA MEETING VENUE: 1:2:1 support by appointment MEETING DAYS: MEETING TIMES:Phone only LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Louisa LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 023 92 294726 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

	Portsmouth	TYPE OF GROUP: Contact Issue GROUP STATUS: GPA MEETING VENUE: Mountbatten Centre, Alexandra Park, Portsmouth, PO2 9QA MEETING DAYS: Tuesday February 19th – then every 2nd Tuesday monthly MEETING TIMES: 1.30pm – 3.30pm LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Louisa LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 023 92 294726 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Grandparents who are denied contact with a grandchild/grandchildren or having problems seeing them are invited to join the new monthly group for grandparents in a similar situation – share information and get some support. Free parking and on bus routes 5 5A 6 6A 45, & 45A

	HERTS

	St Albans	TYPE OF GROUP: Carer Support Group GROUP STATUS: INDEPENDENT MEETING VENUE: Francis Bacon School, St Albans (Childrens Centre) MEETING DAYS: MEETING TIMES: LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Sheila LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 0782797484 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: All carer grandparents are welcome to attend for advice, support and to have access to training and course at the Children Centre.

	Hatfield	TYPE OF GROUP: Grandparent & Toddler group including those caring fulltime for under 5's GROUP STATUS: OTHER MEETING VENUE: Travellers Lane, Hatfield Childrens Centre MEETING DAYS:Different days MEETING TIMES:TBD LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Sarah Bowyer LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 01707 346624 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Volunteers needed Are you interested in being involved with setting up a group with the childrens centre staff?

	Hertfordshire	TYPE OF GROUP: Contact issue network GROUP STATUS: GPA MEETING VENUE: MEETING DAYS: MEETING TIMES: LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Judith LOCAL CONTACT TEL: OTHER: Please contact for information about this developing group. We are intending to set up a support group once a volunteer is in place.

	Letchworth	TYPE OF GROUP: Grandparent & Toddler Group GROUP STATUS: GPA MEETING VENUE: Mrs Howard Memorial Hall, Town Centre Norton Way South, Letchworth, SG6 1NX MEETING DAYS: Wednesdays n term time MEETING TIMES: 9.45am - 11.15am LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Zena Noculak LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 01462 686723 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: znoculak@btinternet.com We welcome grandparnets and senior carers and their pre school children to join in a variety of activities and to meet others. Craft activities weekly and social outings with grandchildren. Cost £1 for grandparents and free for children.

	Potters Bar	Coming soon Call Potters Bar Childrens Centre for more details Volunteers needed 020 8686 4038

	Royston	Childrens Centre, Burns Road, Royston Volunteers needed Contact Judith 0844 3572907

	Stevenage	TYPE OF GROUP: Grandparent & Toddler Group GROUP STATUS: INDEPENDENT MEETING VENUE: Chells Pavilion, Greslety Way, Stevenage, SG2 0LA MEETING DAYS: Wednesdays MEETING TIMES: 9.30am - 11am LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Jacky Bray LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 01438 223979 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

	Tring	TYPE OF GROUP: Grandparent & Toddler Group GROUP STATUS: INDEPENDENT MEETING VENUE: Orchard Children Centre, Dundale Primary, Silk Mill Way, HP23 5DJ MEETING DAYS: Fridays MEETING TIMES: 10am - 11am LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Nikki LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 01442 426922 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

	Welwyn Garden City	TYPE OF GROUP: Carer Group GROUP STATUS: GPA MEETING VENUE: Creswick Childrens Centre, Sir John Newsom Way, Welwyn MEETING DAYS: Variable dates monthly MEETING TIMES: LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Judith LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 01279 428040 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Additional contact - Val Garland 07765 153946 We need volunteers to run this group. Are you interested?

	Welwyn Garden City	TYPE OF GROUP: Carer Group GROUP STATUS: GPA MEETING VENUE: Creswick Childrens Centre, Sir John Newsom Way, Welwyn Garden City, AL7 4FL MEETING DAYS: Monthly MEETING TIMES: Times vary LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Judith LOCAL CONTACT TEL: ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Drop in surgery. A new group is being set up and needs a volunteer to run this group.

	Wheathampstead	TYPE OF GROUP: Grandparent& Toddler Group GROUP STATUS: GPA MEETING VENUE: Lamerfields Childrens Centre, Nurseries Road Wheathamstead. A11 8TP MEETING DAYS: Tuesdays MEETING TIMES: 10am - 11.55am LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Sue Lazenby or Sherry Roberts LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 01582 834758 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:Social activities for grandparents and trips for grandchildren as well

	KENT
	Bromley	TYPE OF GROUP: No contact group. GROUP STATUS: GPA MEETING VENUE: The BUSC, 33 London Road, Bromley, Kent, BR1 1DG MEETING DAYS: First Sunday of month. MEETING TIMES: 1 – 3 p.m. LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Liz LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 020 7485 2901 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Friendly group meeting to provide advice and support for all grandparents who have lost contact. Refreshments provided. bromley.supportgroup@grandparents-association.org.uk

	North Kent and Medway	TYPE OF GROUP: Kinship Carer Group GROUP STATUS: AFFILIATE MEETING VENUE: Sunlight Centre, Gillingham, Kent. MEETING DAYS: Last Friday monthly MEETING TIMES: LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Cassie LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 07825233557 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Informal Support Group for kinship carers, siblings and grandparent carers. Events organised for whole family. kinship.carers.support.group@googlemail.com

	East Kent Kinship Carers	TYPE OF GROUP: Kinship Carer Group GROUP STATUS: INDEPENDENT MEETING VENUE: MEETING DAYS: 1st Friday Monthly - Canterbury 1st Month monthly - Ramsgate MEETING TIMES: LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Paula LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 01843 843352. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Informal Support Group for kinship carers, siblings and grandparent carers. Events organised for whole family. Covers Canterbury and Ramsgate pawleysmith@aol.com

	West Kent Kinship Carers	TYPE OF GROUP: Kinship Carer Group GROUP STATUS: INDEPENDENT MEETING VENUE: MEETING DAYS: MEETING TIMES: LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Jo LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 07885234079 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:Informal Support Group for kinship carers, siblings and grandparent carers. Events organised for whole family.

	Tonbridge	Interest in setting up carers group or a contact group? Contact Judith for more details ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: We have a growing list of grandparent wishing to attend support groups.We require people to help set up the group.

	LANCASHIRE
	Darwen	Carers Group in Burnley set up but gauging need for Lancashire wide group. Are you interest? Contact Judith for details

	LEICESTERSHIRE
	Hinckley	TYPE OF GROUP: Carer Group GROUP STATUS: INDEPENDENT MEETING VENUE: Hinkley MEETING DAYS: Vary MEETING TIMES: Vary LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Sandy Chamberlain LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 07843420223 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: ROCKS - Raising Our Children in Kinship Situations enquiries@kinshipcarers.co.uk

	LINCS
	Lincoln	TYPE OF GROUP: For all grandparents GROUP STATUS: GPA MEETING VENUE: MEETING DAYS: MEETING TIMES: LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Margaret LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 01526320127 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Phone contact only

	Linconshire Network	Gauging need for carers group Contact Judith for details

	WEST MIDLANDS

	Cannock	TYPE OF GROUP: Grandparent & Toddler group GROUP STATUS: OTHER MEETING VENUE: Cannock Chase Children’s Centre, Cannock Road, Cannock, WS11 5BU MEETING DAYS: Wednesday MEETING TIMES: 9:30am – 11:30am LOCAL CONTACT NAME: LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 01785 788 484 for more details ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

	Great Wyrley	TYPE OF GROUP: Grandparent & Toddler group GROUP STATUS: OTHER MEETING VENUE: Landywood Children’s Centre; Holly Lane; Great Wyrley, WS6 6AQ MEETING DAYS: Monday MEETING TIMES: 1:30pm – 3pm (Term time only) LOCAL CONTACT NAME: LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 01785 788 484 for more details ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

	West Midlands Halesowen	TYPE OF GROUP: Group for Grandparent Carers (fulltime and part time) GROUP STATUS: AFFILIATED MEETING VENUE: Little Hands Childrens Centre, Colley, Halesowen, B63 2TN MEETING DAYS: MEETING TIMES: LOCAL CONTACT NAME: LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 01384 815 723 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Family support for grandparent carers

	Litchfield	TYPE OF GROUP: Grandparent & Toddler group GROUP STATUS: OTHER MEETING VENUE: Charnwood Children’s Centre, Purcell Avenue, Lichfield, Staffordshire, WS13 7PH MEETING DAYS: Thursday MEETING TIMES: 1pm – 3pm (Term time only) LOCAL CONTACT NAME: LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 017885 788 484 for more details ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

	West Midlands Solihull	TYPE OF GROUP: Contact Issue Group GROUP STATUS: GPA MEETING VENUE: Solihull Methodist Church, Station Approach, Off Blossomfield Rd, Solihull B91 1LG. MEETING DAYS: First Thursday Monthly (No meeting in January 2013) MEETING TIMES: 2pm-3.30pm LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Lorraine lorraine@nannies4u.co.uk LOCAL CONTACT TEL: Judith 01279 428040 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: informal friendly group. Non judgemental, offering support and advice.

	Tamworth	TYPE OF GROUP: Grandparent & Toddler group GROUP STATUS: OTHER MEETING VENUE: Glascote Children’s Centre, Hawksworth, Tamworth, B77 2HH MEETING DAYS: Monday MEETING TIMES: Monday 1pm – 2:45pm LOCAL CONTACT NAME: LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 01785 788 484 for more details ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

	NORFOLK
		Interested in Contact Issue group? Contact Judith for details

	NORTHANTS
	Kettering	Interested in Carer group? Contact Judith for details

	Northampton	TYPE OF GROUP: Carer Group GROUP STATUS: INDEPENDENT MEETING VENUE: The Headlands Childrens Centre, Bushland Road, Northampton, NN3 2NS MEETING DAYS: Monthly alternating between day and evening MEETING TIMES: LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Rose French LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 01604 237599 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:For support and advice, run by Northants County Council. Creche available.

	NOTTS
	Nottingham	TYPE OF GROUP: Carer Group GROUP STATUS: INDEPENDENT MEETING VENUE: City Centre, Nottingham MEETING DAYS: Once monthly on Friday MEETING TIMES: 10-12 LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Helen Roberts LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 01158762683 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: For family, friends, connected person carers - everybody welcome

	OXFORDSHIRE
	South Oxon	TYPE OF GROUP: Carer Support Group GROUP STATUS: INDEPENDENT MEETING VENUE: Abingdon MEETING DAYS: Monthly meetings Thursday MEETING TIMES: LOCAL CONTACT NAME: LOCAL CONTACT TEL: ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

	North Oxon	TYPE OF GROUP: Carer Support Group GROUP STATUS: INDEPENDENT MEETING VENUE: Banbury MEETING DAYS: Monthly MEETING TIMES: LOCAL CONTACT NAME: LOCAL CONTACT TEL: ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

	SURREY
	Kingston-upon-Thames	TYPE OF GROUP: Contact Group GROUP STATUS: GPA MEETING VENUE: MEETING DAYS: MEETING TIMES: LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Janet LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 07956 598024 OTHER: Support is offered by phone only. A group can be reestablished if a volunteer is willing. janetebyrne@btinternet.com

	SUSSEX
	East Sussex Battle	TYPE OF GROUP: Carer Group GROUP STATUS: INDEPENDENT MEETING VENUE: Battle Baptist Church, Youth Room, Mount Street Battle MEETING DAYS: Second Wednesday in month MEETING TIMES: LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Mel - Family Plus Team LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 01323 463010 OTHER: Parenting support for grandparents

	TYNE AND WEAR
	Whitley Bay	Interested in Carers Support group? Contact Judith for details

	Gateshead Harlow Green	TYPE OF GROUP: Grandparent & Toddler group GROUP STATUS: Other MEETING VENUE: Chowdene Children’s Centre, Waverley Road, Harlow Green, NE9 7TU MEETING DAYS: Thursdays (term time only). MEETING TIMES: 1.30-3.00pm LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Rachel Conway rachelconway@gateshead.gov.uk LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 0191 433 5050 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: 50p per child for this group just to cover refreshments and snacks

	YORKSHIRE

	Doncaster	TYPE OF GROUP: Families First Carer Group. GROUP STATUS: AFFILIATED MEETING VENUE: Local School MEETING DAYS: Irregular meetings when need arises MEETING TIMES: LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Sue LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 0113 2446111 OTHER:

	Garforth	TYPE OF GROUP: Grandparent & Toddler GROUP STATUS: GPA MEETING VENUE: Garforth Children’s centre Community College MEETING DAYS: Thursdays MEETING TIMES: 9.30am - 11.30am LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Denise Pickett LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 01132 446111 OTHER:

	Gipton Horsforth	TYPE OF GROUP: BITS - Broken images in the South GROUP STATUS: MEETING VENUE: Belle Isle Family Centre, Under St John and Barnabus Church, Belle Isle Road, Belle Isle, Leeds, LS10 3DN MEETING DAYS: MEETING TIMES: LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Dave LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 0113 2446111 OTHER:

	Selby	TYPE OF GROUP: Carers Group GROUP STATUS: GPA MEETING VENUE: Selby North Children’s Centre, Flaxley Rd Selby YO8 4DL MEETING DAYS: Bi monthly - see below MEETING TIMES: Next set dates are: Friday 25th May 11.30-1.30 Friday 6th July 11.30-1.30. LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Donna Purkis LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 01609 535111 or 07854077339 OTHER: This is a group run for carers, meeting bi monthly for grandparents, and try to have events during the school holidays to include the grandchildren. Childcare available if requested in advance.

	North Yorkshire Leeds	TYPE OF GROUP: HUGGS - Helping to unite grandparents and grandchildren GROUP STATUS: GPA MEETING VENUE: MEETING DAYS: Fridays MEETING TIMES: 10.30-1.00 LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Dave LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 0113 244 6111 OTHER: Speakers, Drop-in, private room.

	Leeds	TYPE OF GROUP: Friday Group* GROUP STATUS: GPA MEETING VENUE: MEETING DAYS: MEETING TIMES: LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Dave LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 0113 244 6111 OTHER: *Friday Group - for grandchildren who have witnessed issues. Clinical psycologist attends

	Yapton	TYPE OF GROUP: Dad's Apart GROUP STATUS: GPA MEETING VENUE: MEETING DAYS: First Saturday monthly MEETING TIMES: LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Dave LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 0113 2446111 OTHER:

	South Leeds Academy	TYPE OF GROUP: Grandparent Market* GROUP STATUS: GPA MEETING VENUE: MEETING DAYS: MEETING TIMES: LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Dave LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 0113 2446111 OTHER: *Grandparents Market at South Leeds Academy - For charities and agencies.

	Heworth	Interested in Contact Issue group? Contact Judith for details

	Cookridge Leeds	Interested in Contact Issue group? Contact Judith for details

	Leeds LS1	TYPE OF GROUP: Carer Group* GROUP STATUS: INDEPENDENT MEETING VENUE: MEETING DAYS: MEETING TIMES: LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Lesley LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 01132 4688338 OTHER: *Grandparent Carers group of children affected by substance misuse.

	Rotherham	TYPE OF GROUP: Carers Support Group GROUP STATUS: INDEPENDENT MEETING VENUE: Stepping Stones Children’s Centre. Tick Hill Road, Maltby. MEETING DAYS: Monthly last monday of month. MEETING TIMES: LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Linda Cordwell LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 01709 816946 OTHER:
	Rotherham	TYPE OF GROUP: Carers Group GROUP STATUS: INDEPENDENT MEETING VENUE: Monkwood Satellite Base. Rawmarsh Children’s Centre. MEETING DAYS: Tuesdays MEETING TIMES: Tues 1.15 – 2.45 LOCAL CONTACT NAME: LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 01709 336898 OTHER: Contact Childrens centre office for details. Under fives during term time, and older children in holidays.

	WORCS
		Interested in Contact Issue group? Contact Judith for more details

	SCOTLAND	SCOTTISH LAW IS DIFFERENT To ENGLISH LAW SO WE DO NOT RUN THESE GROUPS
	Edinburgh	TYPE OF GROUP: Carers Group GROUP STATUS: INDEPENDENT MEETING VENUE: Woodburn centre MEETING DAYS: Monthly- carers am at Sure Start Monthly - flexible 1:1 and helping dads. MEETING TIMES: 9.30 – 11.00 a.m LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Diane 0131 6540489/ Laura 0131 660 505 LOCAL CONTACT TEL: As above OTHER:

	Glasgow	TYPE OF GROUP: Contact Group GROUP STATUS: INDEPENDENT MEETING VENUE: MEETING DAYS: MEETING TIMES: LOCAL CONTACT NAME: James LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 0141 882 5658 OTHER:

	Rutherglen	TYPE OF GROUP: Contact Group GROUP STATUS: INDEPENDENT MEETING VENUE: MEETING DAYS: MEETING TIMES: LOCAL CONTACT NAME: James LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 0141 882 5658 OTHER:

	Isle of Lewis	TYPE OF GROUP: Contact Group GROUP STATUS:INDEPENDENT MEETING VENUE: MEETING DAYS: MEETING TIMES: LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Maureen LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 01851 705 913 OTHER:

	WALES
	Camarthenshire	TYPE OF GROUP: Carer Group - Drop in session GROUP STATUS: GPA MEETING VENUE: At the 1 Stop Office, 23 Bridge Street Carmarthen SA31 3JSF MEETING DAYS: Wednesday 15 May 2013 MEETING TIMES: 10am - 12 noon LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Judith Howells LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 07805959154 or email judith.howells@grandparents-association.org.uk OTHER: Light refreshments will be provided. See: Camarthen Journal

	Newport Gwent	TYPE OF GROUP: Newport Parents network - Grandparent Support Group GROUP STATUS: AFFILATED MEETING VENUE: Forest Childrens Centre, Partridge Way, Newport MEETING DAYS: Meet Fridays once a month MEETING TIMES: LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Nicola Davies LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 01633 241578 OTHER: Support, advice and outings

	Aberdare	Interested in Contact Issue support group? Contact Judith for details

	Aberdare	Interested in Carers group? Contact Judith for details

	Cardiff	TYPE OF GROUP: Grandparents raising Grandchildren Support Network GROUP STATUS: INDEPENDENT MEETING VENUE: Cardiff City Hall MEETING DAYS: Monthly - weekday morning MEETING TIMES: LOCAL CONTACT NAME: Karen Steele LOCAL CONTACT TEL: 02920 683 687 OTHER: Specifically for grandparent raising grandchildren full time regardless of the reason why or the age of the child or children

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CONTACT US

REGIONAL OFFICES

HELPLINE: 0845 4349585
Monday - Friday 10am - 4pm
advice@grandparents-association.org.uk

WELFARE BENEFIT: 0844 3571033
Tuesday 10-12
Wednesday 10-12
Thursday 11-1
wb@grandparents-association.org.uk

SUPPORT GROUPS: 0844 3572907

OFFICE ADMIN: 01279 428040
info@grandparents-association.org.uk

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SUPPORT GROUPS
Are you a grandparent who is raising your grandchild or are currently denied conatct with them? Are you feeling isolated and wanting to share your experiences and to find out how others cope? Find out more about our network of support groups.

Can you promote your support group?

Some of our support groups have been busy promoting our work through the paper, posters, and even making contact with their local Mayor. If you have a story to tell us please email gill.perks@grandparents-association.org.uk

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