Many grandparents believe it would be beneficial to have a clearer understanding of what access they would have to their grandchildren should their children separate or get divorced, according to a new study.

The study by the Social Policy and Ageing Research Centre in Trinity College Dublin found some grandparents experienced a sense of powerlessness as they have no contact with their grandchildren following their child's separation.

It said the support grandparents provide is frequently the linchpin to successful transitions for children and grandchildren after divorce or separation.