Grandparents’ Pamphlet
SIYAMS have been aware that since lockdown, an increasing number of adolescents have been coerced into inappropriate activities, particularly online, such as sharing unacceptable images, sexting and even County Lines. They are therefore at risk of grooming and exploitation. Many young people are looked after by grandparents or older carers; after school, in the holidays or perhaps full time. One of our group had been made aware of concern amongst her U3A group, that they felt out of touch with technology, the internet and social media, leaving them powerless to support/protect their younger family members.
We realised that a pamphlet, designed specifically for grandparents and carers, could help them to recognise potentially worrying behaviour, give guidance on who to contact with their concerns, and importantly, how to initiate a conversation to help the young people they cared for.
The pamphlets SIYAMS have produced are easy -to read trifold, and following their launch at the March RCM, they are available for all Yorkshire clubs. It is anticipated that clubs will distribute them in libraries, surgeries, welcome cafes, schools, and local social groups.
Contact your nearest Soroptimist club if you would like a leaflet. See the menu item ‘Yorkshire Soroptimist Clubs’ to find the club nearest to you.