In Poland, a grandmother was awarded current custody of her granddaughter by a family court but has encountered difficulties in securing government child benefits. The Child Rights Ombudsman has brought attention to her situation as she applied for two forms of financial support from the Social Insurance Institution (ZUS): 800 PLN as a parenting allowance and 300 PLN as part of the 'Good Start' program. However, ZUS refused her application, arguing that she does not fit the criteria for a legal guardian or a factual caregiver under existing laws.

ZUS's refusal is based on the interpretation of regulations that define who qualifies for child benefits. The institution claims the grandmother only provides current care and thus lacks the necessary legal standing to receive the benefits designated for true guardianship. This decision has prompted the grandmother to appeal to the President of ZUS, who upheld the original decision, leaving her without financial support for her caregiving efforts. The implications of this case could have broader effects on similar caregivers in Poland, affecting how laws are interpreted and applied in family situations where grandparents become primary caregivers.

The case highlights a growing concern about the access to state support for non-traditional caregivers, particularly in familial structures where grandparents play a crucial role in child-rearing. It raises questions regarding the adequacy of the current legal framework in addressing the needs of families in diverse situations and the support available to those who fulfill caregiving roles without official recognition as legal guardians. This scenario may encourage a review of policies to ensure that someone like this grandmother can obtain necessary assistance in the future.