Thread by @abc730

Over 70s have been strongly urged to stay home as much as possible due to #coronavirus. But a lot of families rely on grandparents to help with childcare and that's proving a problem. #abc730 @P_McCutch #COVID19Aus

Wendy Lawson is a healthy 68yo but she is aware that fulltime care of her granddaughter Gabby puts her at higher risk of contracting #coronavirus. #abc730 #COVID19Aus #grandparents

“I don't have any underlying health problems. So, fingers crossed, it will stay that way. Yeah, but if the worst comes to the worst, and I do get ill then we'll have to make other arrangements for Gabby, obviously.” Wendy Lawson, grandparent and carer. #abc730 #COVID19Aus

Prior to #coronavirus #grandparents were providing almost 25% of all preschool care in Australia. #abc730 #COVID19Aus

“Parents in Australia rely more on grandparents than any other form of care. So, I think the changes are going to have a big impact for a lot of families and for a lot of grandparents.” Myra Hamilton @SPRC_UNSW. #abc730 #COVID19Aus #coronavirus

Robyn Hamblin has taken the difficult decision to stop all contact with her grandson because she and her husband are vulnerable to #coronavirus. “It’s sad that we don’t have the physical contact, and the cuddles, but we’re adapting, we’re learning to adapt.” #abc730 #COVID19Aus

A lung condition means Victoria Fletcher can no longer have direct contact with her grandchildren. “I can talk to them through the car window and the phone, but there’s no hugs or cuddles anymore. We can basically look at each other now but not touch.” #abc730 #COVID19Aus