THE Rivergum Grandparents as Parents (GAPS) group took a morning off to enjoy a concert and pamper day recently.
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GAPS is a support organisation for grandparents who are the sole carers of their grandchildren.
It operates out of St John's Anglican Church at Raymond Terrace, holding meetings at 10.30am every Friday during school terms.
For grandparents, especially those who are retired, it can be both emotionally and financially demanding to become a carer.
Bev Matheson from Lemon Tree Passage took on her three grandchildren when her daughter died more than 12 years ago.
"It was good to join the group [GAPS], I look forward to coming each week and it was great to find out all of the help and services I could access."
Retirees Rosemary and Bruce Brahe from Hinton became socially isolated when they took on five of their grandchildren.
"It can be a very lonely life because your other friends are enjoying their retirement," Mrs Brahe said.
"If it wasn't for this group you wouldn't have any friends or any company."
GAPS is not just for retirees, with people like Jo and Tony Lenord taking on the role of carer for three of their grandchildren in their middle-age.
"We are better off than many people in this situation because we are still working," Mrs Lenord said.
"The group did help to put us in touch with different agencies, especially during the legal process.
"I would absolutely encourage people in a similar position to give the group a call."
For more information contact Claire Bell on 4983 1880.