Single parents pushing for broader definition of buddy bubble
While the introduction of a ‘bubble buddy’ is welcome news to people living on their own during the stage four lockdown, some single parents are saying it’s not enough.
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Single parents are pushing for changes to the “buddy bubble” to allow those with children aged over 18 to be included.
They also do not want to have to choose only one grandparent – but not the other – as a buddy.
Premier Daniel Andrews announced the single social bubble last Sunday which allows people living alone and single parents to have one nominated friend or family member to visit them in their home.
Jenny Davidson, CEO of the Council of Single Mothers and their Children, welcomed the move but said it was too restrictive.
The Department of Health rules stipulate that it only applies to parents with dependent children under 18.
“It’s a start and we are grateful for it,” Ms Davidson said. “But the age limit is too prescriptive and creates a false division between parents.”
She would prefer any single parent with dependent children to be able to have a buddy.
“An over-18 living at home is not always going to be the best company,” she said.
One single mother from East Brunswick who did not want to be identified has girls aged 13 and 20, so will miss out on a buddy.
“This has been a great win for single parents but if your child is 18 they are not going to want to be your best friend,” she said.
Ms Davidson said her organisation had also been contacted by parents who want both of their parents to be their buddy for emotional and practical reasons. This is against the rules.
“But the rules stipulate that no other housemates or people can be at home when they visit which is not realistic in lockdown,” Ms Davidson said.
Felicity Galbraith, 47, has been working full-time and home schooling her sons Lachlan aged 13 and Alistair, 11. She wants her parents in Sorrento to help care for her sons in the school holidays so she can work. “How do I choose between mum and dad?” she said. “If we pick mum, then where is dad going to go when we are there?”
“It doesn’t seem reasonable.”
Criticism has also come from single people objecting to the fact that masks need to be worn during visits, unlike intimate partner interactions.
The bubble comes into effect from 11.59pm on September 13.
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