Adoption documentary nominated for a BAFTA award

A HARD-hitting documentary that featured Warrington’s adoption service has been nominated for a BAFTA TV award for best factual series.
Channel 4’s 15,000 Kids and Counting gave programme-makers unprecedented access to WWiSH – Warrington, Wigan and St Helens Council’s joint adoption service.
Filmed over two years, more than one million viewers tuned in to watch the three part series which aired last April, with the Daily Telegraph saying “It’s difficult to imagine a more important documentary will be made all year.”
This year’s House of Fraser British Academy Television Awards ceremony will be held at the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane, London on Sunday 10 May, two weeks after the British Academy Television Craft Awards on 26 April.
The programme is up against Educating The East End, Life and Death Row and Protecting Our Parents.
Annette Hope (pictured, right) emerged as one of the stars of the programme. The social worker’s commitment to the children in her care saw her described as a hero by the press and public.
Annette said: “It was strange being filmed at first but we were so used to them being with us you genuinely forget they are there.
“The outcome was far better than I could have imagined, with thousands of calls to adoption services from prospective adopters.”
Steve Reddy, Executive Director for families and wellbeing at Warrington Borough Council, said: “This is brilliant news for everyone who was involved in the programme. The programme received lots of positive feedback from viewers and other councils and I am delighted that the hard work of our shared adoption service with Wigan and St Helens councils (WWiSH) is being recognised.
“The WWiSH joint service continues to find loving, forever families for the children in our area. You can call WWiSH on 01942 487272 or email [email protected] for more information.”
The House of Fraser British Academy Television Awards ceremony will be held at the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane, London on Sunday 10 May, hosted by Graham Norton.