Families want more time together

PARENTS may be surprised to hear it, but children and young people want to spend more time with them.

Not only that, but young people would much prefer to be with their parents than have more money.

A survey shows adults also put having more time with their children above having more money or a better place to live.

“The results for young people are very interesting, that they want more time with their parents or parent than they want money. But it reflects, as does the view of parents, the pressures on families,” said Deirdre Mortell of Barnardos, which carried out the research.

The survey asked parents and young people what was most important: that they and their family have more time together; more money or a better place to live?

The results showed that:

84% of adults and 72% of young people want more time together.

11% of parents and 17% of children want more money.

5% of parents and 11% of young people want a better place to live.

Ms Mortell said the survey indicated an overwhelming desire of families to spend more time together.

“There are more pressures on families. If you take two parents, both working and commuting, they may have very little time for their children.

“Also at the other end you may have two parents, neither of whom are working, and who are under stress.”

She pointed out that 19% of two-parent families and 29% of lone parent families live in poverty.

The survey is part of Barnardos Parents Under Pressure campaign, which started in March.

Ms Mortell said every family went through a stress point at some time and needed support at that stage.

“What we found in out Parents Under Pressure Report is that parents are rarely asked what would help them out. They need that support when they need it and where they need it, usually at community level.”

Barnardos is calling for improved paid maternity and paternity leave to give parents more time with their young children.

Mothers are entitled to 18 weeks paid leave and 18 weeks unpaid leave. However, paternity leave, while a right under EU law, is unpaid in Ireland.

“Most people can’t afford paternity leave, so they can’t take it up,” said Ms Mortell.

“Improved leave is good for children, good for parents and it takes the pressure off creche facilities.”

Barnardos is also calling for more family support services.

Barnardos itself runs such services in 10 counties as well as free information services.