Popular grandparents’ booklet goes national

The Mirabel Foundation’s first national edition of their resource booklet, When the Children Arrive …was launched today giving grandparents around the country a better guide to the services and assistance available to them.

The booklet was launched in Melbourne on behalf of the Australian Government by National Party Senator for Victoria, Julian McGauran.

“Initially available only in Victoria, the Foundation produced 2,000 copies of the booklet that provides advice and information on a range of services available that helps grandparents and other kinship carers to raise children,” Mr Anthony said.

“In July last year, the Australian Government provided further funding of $150,000 for the first national edition to be produced and distributed – this is obviously a fantastic resource that is in great demand.

“Mirabel has now taken the next important step to make the booklet available throughout Australia, printing 150,000 initial copies and including information on support services in all States and Territories.

“Last year COTA National Seniors was funded to hold a series of forums for grandparent carers to obtain their views on the support that they and their grandchildren need. This resource will go a long way to meeting their information needs.

“It covers issues that would normally face grandparents and other relatives when they find themselves raising children such as their legal obligations and rights and the emotional effects of raising children again, it also contains some very practical advice.

“The demand for this booklet shows that there was a void in the information and advice available to grandparents and kin caring for children – a void the Coalition Government is happy to help fill.

“The Mirabel Foundation was established in Melbourne in 1998 and has developed an outstanding reputation for helping children who have become orphaned or abandoned through parental illegal drug use.

“The Australian Government is committed to ensuring all Australian children get the best start in life. We will continue the work to better recognise and support grandparents looking after their grandchildren,” Mr Anthony said.