How the Other Half Live

Series 1 | Episode 1 | How the Other Half Live

Watch this episode now on 4oD How the Other Half Live

Nine-year-old Grace lives in one of the wealthiest parts of the country with her mum Christine, dad Ken and brother Charlie (13). They have a big house and several acres of land, with two cleaners and a team of gardeners to help. But Ken comes from a deprived area of Glasgow and he wants his children to know that life isn't like this for everyone.

Meanwhile, ten-year-old Yolanda lives in a flat on a council estate with her mum and two sisters. She keeps her belongings in cardboard boxes and a suitcase because her mum can't afford to buy her any drawers.

On TV

First Shown

Date Time Channel
Thursday 30 July 2009 9PM Channel 4

Last Shown

Date Time Channel
Thursday 30 July 2009 9PM Channel 4

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  1. my bff yolanda has left the school today for the girl grace is boarding school she is lucky so lucky
    Posted by zahra flower on 16/09/2009 19:18:40
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  2. I have just finished watching all 3 episodes and can honestly say I think its fantastic that these families have been given a chance to start over with a bit of help. I see some people feel that these families are not living in poverty, which I find quite insulting when they are unaware of the finantial situation these people are in. Many of us struggle, work hard and have more than 1 job but we do it because we can and because we like extras such as Internet, Sky T.V cars and such things. At no point in any of these programmes did I see any of these. So I would like to say how glad I am the 3 families were given an oppertunity to better themselves with a little help from some very caring people and I wish them all the best for their futures.xxxxxx
    Posted by Marnie on 09/09/2009 11:05:56
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  3. I have just watched the third programme - in tears for much of the time - as I was with the first. It is a brilliant series, please don't stop the series. There is so much real rubbish on TV - so much focus on the bad stuff - but this reminds us that there are really good people out there and we can change things. As soon as I'd seen it I watched it again - and like the teacher who has put her message on, I want to know how I can download a copy to share with friends and family. Congratulations and thanks to everyone behind the series and PLEASE KEEP IT GOING.
    Posted by mrs Chawdry on 22/08/2009 19:25:32
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  4. What a great programme and what a super family ~ The Brotherstons. May God bless that family for their kindness and generousity. Absolutely wonderful! Juliet -x-
    Posted by Juliet Bremmer on 22/08/2009 17:14:16
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  5. I would like to congratulate channel 4 on this fantatsic show. Child Poverty is at the forefront of the governments plans with the new bill that has recently come in (eradicating child poverty by 2020). I think people would be surprised by what child poverty means and it is much more than just money! Cultural poverty and emotional poverty have a huge impact on families. I watched this programme with my 10 year old son and he loved it, it was a respectful insight in to real people and the hardships they face by what life throws at them. I hope channel 4 will take this on board and consider another series. Regardless of viewer numbers this is a great programme which aids closing the gap between "rich" and "poor". Fantastic!
    Posted by Laura on 20/08/2009 19:55:31
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  6. I really enjoyed this programme and as a school teacher I would like to show it to my class to raise awarness of poverty in the UK. Does anyone know how I can download it? Thanks
    Posted by Charlie on 12/08/2009 20:40:57
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  7. i feel that the families that you are showing can survive on the money that they got they just not managing thier money probley me and my partner are working THREE jobs between us and we are surviving on less then what the family that was on last night we live quite comfertably.The kids dont go without anything and the house is nicley decorated i just feel there is LESS fortante people out there i live on a council estate aswell if it a ruff place you can still take the kids out and about you DONT need the money to spend the time with the family i quite often take the kids out with no money its the spending time together that counts.i know that PEOPLE are out there thats on LESS money even from the first episode and the kids never go without also the lady that was on last night can get a night job to help out.I think if you going to do a programme like that then do it for people that arent getting that much money it makes me annoyed especially when that lady went out and broght a laptop instead of spending it on the kids well that made me even more annoyed PLEASE PLEASE find somone else thats a bit more worse of then the people that you putting on. Just becouse they live in a ruff area dont mean to say they live in poverty
    Posted by vicky on 07/08/2009 19:40:23
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  8. i have finally just got round to watching the first episode on 4od. i am a grown man of 48 years old but i found myself fighting back tears at many moments in the episode. i would just like to give a big thankyou to the brotherstons for giving me back repect in human nature. i just goes to show that you cant put a lable on people because of the state of their finances( "not that i ever did anyway") Taking the gifts an money away from the issue you are left with the gumpos who i must say were very gracious and well spoken despite their poverty and showed no bitterness to other people who were better off. and we had the brothertons who simply gave out of the kindness of their own hearts god bless you all and thankyou for creating a wonderfull tv programme.
    Posted by jeff guise on 07/08/2009 15:55:57
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  9. This programme I have jusy watched relates so much to my life as it is at the moment,I can relate with both families and no just how difficult it is to survive on a day to day process,most off all when you have a young family to feed and clothe and you have no Idea where the next penny is coming from Its a fanastic offer of help from both families, and I also know how difficult it must be for the parents to accept help.
    Posted by shireena harris on 06/08/2009 23:07:52
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  10. Angels in mankind is what the Brotherstons family are. The joy is in the giving and a lesson to one and all. The beautiful Gumpo family are an inspiration with the strong woman holding the family together. All we need is a little help from each other. Watching the programme created a river of tears, tears of joy in the knowledge that there are indeed good people no matter what your wealth level is or the colour of your skin.
    Posted by JetPages on 06/08/2009 13:17:39
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  11. Wow what a powerful programme!It was heartwarming,Graces' family were in no way condescending,they're eyes were opened to a life they'd never seen and they took it in beautifully.I cried,smiled etc all the way thro'.
    Posted by alison cork on 05/08/2009 19:59:42
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  12. Very close to home, but inspiring. Compassion that restores my faith in people who are privileged. What a wonderful thing the Brotherstons have done / are doing, and how understanding to have considered it. I feel inspired that Ken and Christine wish to educate their children about how 'the other half live' and inspired by Sharon .. because I know how big, what the Brotherstons are doing, is, and understand the difference it is already making. I hope both families check these posts - I admire both greatly. Ken, Christine and Sharon are doing their children proud. I was particularly impressed by how well-spoken, and therefore well brought up, Sharon's daughters are. It is gratifying to see how both families' children behaved with each other. To all of you, thank you.
    Posted by jenny26 on 04/08/2009 20:45:48
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  13. Families like the Brotherstons inspire and motivate me to achieve like they have, just to give back to the communities and people i have grown around. I think this program is a wake up call to a lot of people who take their facillities for granted. It also gives hope to people who are not so lucky and people who know they have to fight through the tough circumstances that they are facing day to day. I would like to personally thank the Brotherstones for helping this family and to share their success with a family were in need. Watching the program, it clearly shows that it has helped further educate your children about the poorer societies with-in this country. Well done and thank you.
    Posted by James on 04/08/2009 00:35:38
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  14. Great program, The Brothertons seem like a really nice family that want to give a bit back and show their children that there is another side to life. The Gumpo's dispel the myth that every poor single mum on a council estate is breeding delinquents. Both parents are raising lovely children and I wish the best for both families.
    Posted by B on 03/08/2009 20:43:00
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  15. Wow this was a lovely show. I was blown away by the sweet hearts of the young girls in both families. The friendship between Grace and Yolanda was beautiful. Yolanda will go far in life because its clear she is educated.
    Posted by Shine On on 03/08/2009 17:28:37
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  16. i would like to meet the brothertons in person so i could give them a hug. what nice people, starting to think that people like that didnt exist. we could do with a few more families that really care. well done.
    Posted by ray on 03/08/2009 15:01:35
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  17. Without a doubt the best thing I've watched this year so far. I was struck by the beautiful diction of the Gumpo girls. If they spoke badly and had angry young boys at home it would have been an altogether less sympathetic picture (in my opinion). Still, it was inspiring and thought provoking.
    Posted by EW on 03/08/2009 01:05:06
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  18. Where do I start, this programme has really touched my heart. Its made me see how lucky I actually am and how thankful I should be for the small things in life I take for granted. Both famalies are amazing people and should be very proud. I personnally think there should be more programmes of this nature made to make narrow minded people see that its not all black and white. Thank you Channel 4 for a truly wonderful programme its really opened my eyes.
    Posted by Amanda82 on 02/08/2009 22:27:52
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  19. Where do I start, this programme has really touched my heart. Its made me see how lucky I actually am and how thankful I should be for the small things in life I take for granted. Both famalies are amazing people and should be very proud. I personnally think there should be more programmes of this nature made to make narrow minded people see that its not all black and white. Thank you Channel 4 for a truly wonderful programme its really opened my eyes.
    Posted by Amanda82 on 02/08/2009 22:21:02
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  20. was this in acton,west london?
    Posted by thomas on 02/08/2009 03:00:10
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  21. What an uplifting programme in these times, made me feel happy and sad. What lovely families as well and the children were so well behaved and unspoilt. I hope the Gumpo's continue to progress to better things as they deserve it and the Brotherton's - I am lost for words - wonderful people!
    Posted by geraldine hilder on 01/08/2009 19:43:43
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  22. what an amazing programme, on the back of secret millionaire I stumble upon this. There's such a danger of unbalance but it was clear to see that both families benefitied. a wonderful, uplifting hour.
    Posted by jeremy dyer on 01/08/2009 19:14:06
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  23. I agree with NICOLA.The Gumpo's and Brotherton's are both amazing, loving and kind families. I watched to have an opinion on the series not intending to watch any following programme. Some of the voiced worries/concerns were my own. The makers of the programme made good choices of matching these families and I hope the following two were just as carefully chosen. They are very inspirational parents. Both families have such a lot in common. All the parents have/are bringing up well adjusted children.
    Posted by Chris on 01/08/2009 13:03:41
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  24. I expected this to be about the 'rich' family wanting to make themselves feel better by giving to the 'poor'... how wrong was I?! It was a fantastic programme which showed how a little help can really go a long way. Not everyone on benefits wants to stay that way and appear on the Jeremy Kyle show(!), but circumstances can conspire against them meaning it is virtually impossible to do anything else. The Gumpo's and Brotherton's are both amazing, loving and kind families and I am sure they will continue to build on their friendships. The girls sitting in the Brotherton's garden after their first meeting and talking about how glad they were to have met each other made me cry! I can relate to the Gumpo's in some way as I live in a Council house (not in a deprived area) and I grew up in one. I was lucky that my family knew right from wrong and showed me and my siblings that you have to get an education and work for a living - similar to Ken Brotherton's upbringing. I am also a single-parent with a full-time job. Christine, Ken and Sharon should be extremely proud of their children... I hope my son grows up to be as kind as they are. What a superb programme and I hope the remainder of the series is as good.
    Posted by Nicola on 01/08/2009 10:51:02
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  25. This was a great program about two families who lived two very different lives but with one thing in common - human kindness. My concern at first was that it would feel like money buys everything, even happiness, and I worried about the imbalance of Christines family always being the givers. However, as the program progressed I saw in Yolande's family a richness that she was able to offer Christine that was truly priceless and that giving is just as rewarding and receiving. Thank you to everyone who made this program happen.
    Posted by cyd on 01/08/2009 07:13:48
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  26. You can tell the Brothertons genuinely wanted to help this family, and that their hearts were in the right place. There will always be people who argue that lavishly gifts on those living in poverty won't help teach money management in the long term, or that the more wealthy family's motive was self-gratifying... but really on a personal level all you have to do is watch the programme to see that those ideas are utter rubbish! The Brothertons should be proud of themselves. They will have known that there was the possibility of being criticised as such, and they took that risk. Not to mention their genuine interest in getting to know the Gumpos, the time they spent together... oh and, I almost forgot, the large amount of money that they donated! As for the Gumpos, it was so great to see Yolanda's mother become increasingly more positive as the documentary wore on. She should be proud of her girls as they are all incredibly well spoken and polite, especially Yolanda who seems very wise for a 10 year-old, I hope she is reading this!
    Posted by Jay on 31/07/2009 22:48:34
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  27. Both families are truley amazing. The brotherstones are inspirational. A really great documentary.
    Posted by yasmin on 31/07/2009 22:13:49
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  28. This was a very moving documentary and I thought the Gumpos family were a credit to themselves to show how despite living way below the poverty line that a parent and a single parent can still retain control and respect of her children who didnt feel the need to disobey and turn to crime. I wondered if anyone knows of how I could send some items to the Gumpos via channel 4 as i appreciate their home address would be confidential. please email me
    Posted by maxine monks on 31/07/2009 21:52:22
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  29. GOD bless both families!!!!!!!!! I did cry and cry and cry. I'd class myself as upper class POOR but after wathcing that,even i feel i could give alittle to help those worse off then myself. Yet another GREAT documentary Chan4,really really enjoyed that. Jade.
    Posted by Jadey baby on 31/07/2009 21:16:30
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  30. GOD bless both families!!!!!!!!! I did cry and cry and cry. I'd class myself as upper class POOR but after wathcing that,even i feel i could give alittle to help those worse off then myself. Yet another GREAT documentary Chan4,really really enjoyed that. Jade.
    Posted by Jadey baby on 31/07/2009 21:03:48
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  31. Top marks channel 4. I filled up when I saw what the Gumpos family were going through. And the girls were so well spoken and polite. I would just like to wish them all the very best for the future and god bless them.
    Posted by Russ on 31/07/2009 21:01:38
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  32. What lovely families! Thank you for a most inspiring and excellent programme.
    Posted by OME on 31/07/2009 20:58:16
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  33. I would like to say what a beautiful programme. I must comment on Yolande and her sisters, their manners were impecable, a very rare thing in these days, also the respect for their mother and each other also a very rare thing. Well done, and you are a beautiful family and I wish you well for the future
    Posted by elaineinmoraira on 31/07/2009 20:46:45
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  34. Thank you Channel 4. This was one of the best programmes I have seen for a very long time. It was informative, emotional and brilliantly done. Thank you for making me laugh and cry channel 4.
    Posted by SianyBee on 31/07/2009 19:25:17
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  35. OMG this was such a great programme! when i first saw it advertised i thought oh great another boaring show in prime time viewing , but when i watched it , it really moved me. this should get an award , it was really good. it shows that people from all corners of life can mix , and work together to make a brighter future,.
    Posted by JRL1994 on 31/07/2009 17:44:34
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  36. I have never cried so much at a TV programme before. It is remarkable how much the things I take for granted, such as a table, or a bed can make such a difference. The redistribution of wealth in Britain is awful, and more needs to be done to help children in poverty. This programme has really opened my eyes to poverty in this country, so thank you channel 4 :)
    Posted by Jo on 31/07/2009 17:25:21
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  37. As much as I enjoyed last nights programme and hope the Gumpos achieve all they desire, I would have prefered that the Gumpos been matched with a rich black family so Yolande wuld not have this picture that its only white people who are rich as is so often perceived. Yes I do agree we should be helping the less fortunate in this country and yet again it lands on us the average working person to help resolve the situation whilst those in government would rather spend money on wars that we should not be fighting, but thats another story.
    Posted by Sonia on 31/07/2009 16:57:04
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  38. what a fantastic programme!! it is fantastic to see there are people out there that are so selfless and care so much! if only there were more family's out there like them! i wish both family's the best life can offer!!
    Posted by nigeandsarah on 31/07/2009 15:43:48
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  39. I thought it was a great documentary, but I am really concerned about the Gumpo's safety now that they have a laptop, new furniture, and no debt - surely in such a dangerous estate they will be targets for robbery and bullying? Especially now that it was broadcast exactly when she'll be out at her sewing course??
    Posted by ROWANA on 31/07/2009 14:56:15
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  40. I tearfully watched this with my son - it brought back memories of how we struggled to make ends meet too - both as a child with my mum on a high-rise council flat, and myself and my son as a mother. How refreshing to see humans behaving as "humans". Charity surely "starts at home". Well done C4.
    Posted by Vicky on 31/07/2009 12:55:02
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  41. I was really uplifted when i saw the program because it was so hard for them.I live in poverty but not like that i really fell sorry for them.I am glad that they got help from the family
    Posted by Joanna on 31/07/2009 12:04:59
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  42. Was looking forward to this series and last nights episode didnt disappoint. So looking forward to the next episode already!
    Posted by Lorna on 31/07/2009 11:28:59
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  43. What an excellent programme. I was really touched by the love shown by both families. Well done to Sharon for nurturing such great children and Christine and Ken for their generosity - who were not at all condescending. I was in tears watching the programme. Well done Channel 4!
    Posted by Janette Sylvester on 31/07/2009 11:23:58
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  44. I totally cried when i was watching this programe because I know exactly how mother Gumpo feels. Either though I work I still can't afford a sofa, bed that isn't broken or a tabel and chairs for myself and my family, we are in a mountin of debt and I am working to pay bills. Whilst I didn't migrate to this country and was born in London I had to move to the country so that my children would have a better future as no one should have to hear someone got shot in there bed around the corner from you even if it is a reality. I am now trying to become an MP so I can change situations that we as human beings should never have to live with and hope I get there in time to see a difference before it is too late
    Posted by Ell on 31/07/2009 10:45:21
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  45. Brilliant moving programme and having brought up my own son in a high rise as a single mother and now living comfortably I could relate to the programme well. Although the idea was brilliant, especially from the point of view of the girl from the wealthier family appreciating what she has got and the girl from the less well off family realising what she could achieve if she got a good education I can't help but feel giving people on benefits money to pay off their debts, have nice furniture etc is not a realistic answer to their problems - if you clear someones debts and buy them things they have learned nothing about managing their own money or budgetting/saving. It should be about empowering people to become independent - not giving expensive gifts to them with no caviat or payback. Can't help but feel in some way this is almost encouraging the attitude in society that people are "entitled" to nice things, big TVs, nice furniture etc whether they work and contribute to the economy or not and whilst I completely agree no children should live in poverty a line must surely be drawn somewhere because its just not sustainable. I just hope that the less well off mother learns something from it and sticks at college and gets a job.
    Posted by Carmine on 31/07/2009 10:42:27
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  46. like the programme would have loved to see more but the i player kept stopping in the same place...so could not watch the full programme which was a shame. this sort of programme like the secret millionaire are compulsive viewing and we all learn not to make sweeping assumptions as to placs but most of all it lets us know that there are good people all over just doing the best they can. There is also a selflessnes about some people that give that changes them and those around them........ wish i could have seen all the programme I missed it because working ....... but I will watch the rest. I tried to watch it 4 times on i player but it stopped at the same place every time... sadly
    Posted by Tricia Alford on 31/07/2009 09:58:58
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  47. Cried my eyes out watching this last night-this is what this country needs more of.Its all very good trying to help out other kids in deprived parts of the world,but whats wrong with helping out our own?IF I HAD THE MONEY-this is exactly the sort of thing I would do with it,I only wish I could,but unfortunately I am not in any position myself to help anyone. This is the best Reality TV programmes ever-I will be watching the rest without hesitation-thank you to those who did help. Phyl
    Posted by Phyl on 31/07/2009 09:32:33
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  48. Wow, a balanced and uplifting programme portraying these wonderful families strengths. I felt so inspired by both families. I would like send a small gift to the Gumpos if possible? Yolanda has struggled for so long yet still been a beacon for her 3 wonderful children. I wish them every success on their bright new future- Please could channel 4 pass on my e-mail address so I may get in touch?
    Posted by Jo on 31/07/2009 08:17:52
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  49. This programme seems to have been a really successful attempt at showing how the benefits of giving personal charity within the UK far outweighs the hurdles that tend to make this kind of generosity be seen negatively and as a bit of a social taboo. Both families obviously had to tackle difficult emotions when they gave/received financial help. Any self-gratification the Brotherton's might have ultimately felt was completely deserved - a natural reward for braving possible criticism to help out another family and see the positive change they could effect. Hopefully it will encourage more of us to face the poverty gap and help where we can - rather than ignoring it to avoid the uncomfortable feelings such a confrontation with reality might bring.
    Posted by elle on 31/07/2009 00:43:01
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  50. This was a very emotional and moving program, i am not being funny, but how can they afford a large flat screen tv and not even afford a new bed...
    Posted by Oliviia.x on 30/07/2009 23:45:31
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  51. It's late and I am tired, but I can not go to bed without commenting on your first episode of "How the other half live". I have never been so emotional over a tv program like this in my life. It told my story and I too live in London in dire struggle after the loss of our son, and a divorce. I am American and have felt so lost trying to do the right things for my three children. I was so moved by this program that I cried throughout the entire show becuase I identified so much with the people in it. How lovely. I have tried to keep my head held up high for so long now, the rivers just broke when I realized I had so much in common with the mother who was in the struggle of her life. My son has no bed, we are saving for a table which we will probably never see, and I am sleepless through debt which I can only afford to throw a pitance at to get by. I just know so many people must have felt the same way I did while watching your program. It was a brave show and I know it will do wonders. Thank you so much for showing me I am not alone, I can hold my head up high, and all things with God's help, always get better. Now is a time when we need to be reminded as a human race that there is always hope. Thanks again, Lizzy Steele and Family. xx
    Posted by lizzy on 30/07/2009 23:33:40
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  52. Channel 4 is Political Correctness Crazy, 240 Pounds per week is not Poverty ,They are a Lovely Family ,But not on the Poverty Line as they are Entitled to have there rent fully paid as well ,Many people Survive on Less money and do well ,Housed regular income that's not Poverty ,
    Posted by mal on 30/07/2009 23:27:35
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  53. I just want to say a big big thank you to the Brothertons for all they did. They brought me to tears and made me realise there were still some nice people around. Thanks to the producers as well. May the good Lord replenish the Brotherton family's purse and strenghten the Gumpos.
    Posted by Coco on 30/07/2009 23:23:42
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  54. hi iv just been watching this episode of how the other half live i am so moved at how kind and generous this family was it just shows u how thoughtful people can be im looking forward to the nxt episode jules x
    Posted by jules tocker on 30/07/2009 23:19:21
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  55. how do u apply to b on documenteries,what a fantastic family for all the help an support ken and christine were able to offer yolanda and family there are some remarkable people out there what a great documentary i will deffinatly b tunned in next time
    Posted by hayley talman on 30/07/2009 23:11:06
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  56. A message for the Gumpo Family, I am Nikita, and I too left Zimbabwe.Yolanda, I was near your age when I left, and that was right at the beginning of the troubles 10 years ago.I completely understand how you feel now, and the trials you and your family are going through.It was not easy for myself either.Nobody likes to lie out of a suitcase and know the uncertainty each day brings, but like yourselves, by the grace of God, and the presence of my family, I worked hard at my studies and have now embraced opportunities that I may never have had. To know kindness such as the gifts from the Brotherstones is a real blessing.My family were blessed with some kindness in the beginning too, without which we may never have got to where we are.I am now at University, sharing your passion Sharon, for sewing and designing, and hoping to build a positive future.I miss Zimbabwe everyday, and seeing you all on the show made me feel like despite everything, we are never alone.Thankyou for reminding me of how far I have come, and far there still is to go.Good luck in everything you do.You have a beautiful family. Nikita x
    Posted by Nikita Tavares on 30/07/2009 23:04:47
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  57. Just finished watching the first episode with Yolanda and family and Grace and family. Just wanted to say I thought both familes were brilliant. Christine and Ken you must be so proud of Grace and Charlie and Yolanda, her sisters and their mum should be really proud of themselves too. I was so pleased that Yolanda's mum could get herself out of debt and wish her all the luck for the future. Her daughters were a real credit too her. Respect to you Yolanda's mum. Yolanda and her family may be poor but it shone through that they are surrounded with a wealth of love from their mum. Christine and Ken I really admire the way that you involved yourself in this project. How easy would it have been for you to turn a blind eye. I think Grace was brilliant the way she embraced the whole expierence. Really enjoyed watching you all and it was nice to watch a programme that left you with a feel good factor.
    Posted by Christime on 30/07/2009 22:42:31
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  58. Oh my days!!! This is one of the most touching docu's I have watched. I was so emotional watching this had me in tears. Many of my friends who watched said the same. I just like the fact that it was not so much about charity, but more of helping them with and hand up. Both families benefitted from the experience. It is amazing how little things can make a big difference to someone's life. we do not know what her life was like in her birth country but his just highlights that Refugees are not being given a silver spoon in the uk. So happy for her that she has enrolled in a course and they now have certain tools like a pc a table a bed thats not on the floor. I pray that she does well on her course and that she and her girls move up the ladder in life. oh and loved the fact that the rich family was not snotty they were just cool people. love that ps. channel 4 pls do a follow up on the families
    Posted by SoFrolushes on 30/07/2009 22:41:07
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  59. Totally enjoyed this documentary.Absolutely lovely family and well mannered children.I was choked up just seeing their appreciation of the generosity of christine and ken.It was a nice "feel good" documentary,not what i was expecting at all.It is lovely to see that christine and ken are bringing their children up to appreciate their beautiful home and life,and also to show them the other side of life.Their generosity was unbelievable.I do understand that not everyone would see it in the same way as i have,but isn't it nice to see a family who have had a tough time,who haven't alway's been on benefits,get some fairy godmother treatment.Good luck to yolanda and her family,and all the best to christine,ken and their lovely family.Well done channel 4.
    Posted by Angela Chapman on 30/07/2009 22:39:11
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  60. I found this programme very interesting. I cried almost throughout the programme. i think it was very good thing Ken and christine did to let their children see and experience how poor people live. i believe in heart my that Sharon's children would want to work more harder and be successful as well. God bless you both ken and christine, keep the good work going!
    Posted by Rashida on 30/07/2009 22:32:49
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  61. I just have to say i have never found myself crying while watching a programme but i have cried several times and i simply cant wait to see next weeks!!!
    Posted by JK on 30/07/2009 22:32:30
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  62. Touching, moving show which was well filmed with some greatly timed moment. Respect to both families x
    Posted by mark_cotton on 30/07/2009 22:27:19
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  63. Please could the council or housing association offer this lovely family a new house. They deserve it after all that they have been through. I was shocked when they said that the children could not play out on their own. EVERY CHILD HAS A RIGHT TO BE SAFE. Come on help this lovely lady and her children with a new home so she can rebuild her life. Its the new start she NEEDS and DESERVES.
    Posted by B M Wirral Merseyside on 30/07/2009 22:20:59
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  64. We have just watched the 1st episode of How the Other Half Lives, and were moved to tears throughout this careful and sensitively made documentary. Both families were dignified and gracious in their giving and receiving. We didn't want the programme to end. We were so moved by the attitudes of the three parents involved, and the way they encouraged their children to stand in the place of the others. We were touched by the sweetness of the friendships made, and by the honesty expressed on all sides. May this programme be an inspiration to many who may be able to help in a similar way. Is it possible to know more about how the contacts were made? Thank you to all involved in the making of this programme, and we look forward to the next two episodes. We do hope they will be instrumental in moving many people to do what they can to help in similar ways. Thank you.
    Posted by Pam on 30/07/2009 22:18:56
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  65. How the Other Half Live - what an inspiring documentary. The difference between Yolanda's mum at the beginning of the show and at the end of it made it clear that this experience had changed her attitude to life, helped her regain confidence in her abilities and believe that she really could get back into the work world and be a positive role model for her girls. Perhaps it is a bit self-gratifying to write a cheque and be showered with thanks and gratitude, but it really seemed that the Brotherstone family wanted to make 'charity start at home'. They didn't just give money either. They spent the time to visit the council estate and eat with the 'other half' and that is the really generous part. Yolanda's family went from being completely on their own, to having the support of people who really seemed interested in helping them. Thank you for such a touching programme.
    Posted by K C on 30/07/2009 22:15:54
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  66. i watched the documentory tonight and i just want to say, that Ken his wife Christine are the nicest people that i have seen and in a long time,what selflessness,it made me cry just to watch yolanda crying in joy at the gifts that were given to them,i to live on benefits and know how hard it is to keep straight,having a fairy godmother/father must have felt like christmas for them all, i would also like to commend ken and his wife on how articulate their children are and loving and thoughtful, you made me cry and hope that good can happen to all of us,
    Posted by catherine jones on 30/07/2009 22:15:29
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  67. just watched this show and it made me cry, both families were lovely and they were so caring, its nice to see people like this are still around. I am by no means well off but i am also fortunate enough to not be struggling like the gumpos, we have a nice house and nice things but im a single mother and do work hard for it, i hope in the future i manage to do well and can also be in the position to help others like the brocastors did, regards Joanne Andrews
    Posted by joanne andrews on 30/07/2009 22:14:27
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  68. What a genuinely lovely family the Brothertons are. So selfless. It was a sheer pleasure to watch this programme, although tearful sometimes! It was so nice how the Girls got on so well, and I really do think a friendship could be there for life. If there is any way you could pass on sincere thanks to the Brothertons for what they have done for this family, I would be very grateful. I think many more people in UK could take a leaf out of their book and sponsor closer to home.
    Posted by nessquick on 30/07/2009 22:13:52
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  69. I just watched that episode and was in tears many times. Those two families were amazing people and all the children were wonderfull. It was so nice to see the happy faces and I think both families got alot out of this and Im not talking about money. Good Friends and true people. Love to all and wish you all well.
    Posted by Deedee on 30/07/2009 22:11:53
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  70. I have just watched the first in the series and although I found it hard to believe that poverty existed in this 'nanny state', my heart went out to the Gumpo family. I thought the programme would come across as very condescending on the part of the wealthy family, but it didn't. Good luck to both the families concerned.
    Posted by eleanor bell on 30/07/2009 22:11:34
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  71. Fantastic. Very touching. A great reminder that we can all make a difference to eachtother lives, if we want to.
    Posted by Kate on 30/07/2009 22:11:21
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  72. Again the speech was rendered inaudible by the intrusive music overlay. How is the viewer expected to understand if the spoken word is inaudible? Does ANYBODY actually listen to the programme before broadcast? Please try harder before the next episode.
    Posted by Gerald Cope on 30/07/2009 22:11:18
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  73. Having just watched the program I felt the need to comment on how lucky Yolanda and her family are. Not only for the fact that someone has offered them help, but for the fact that that they are richer than they possibly know. Sharon is obviously a loving and caring mother with 3 beautiful and intelligent daughters. They are 3 extremely well mannered children who will go far in this world I am sure. I wish the Gumpos the very best for the future - its going to be good Im sure!
    Posted by Scott on 30/07/2009 22:11:18
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  74. It was so moving to watch the Brothertons and Gumpo's. Such wonderful families and such kind hearts. I'm really touched!
    Posted by Jennifer on 30/07/2009 22:08:59
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  75. What an amazing programme. I would love to know how to get in touch with Sharon to put some sewing orders in! All the best to both families.
    Posted by Tabitha on 30/07/2009 22:08:11
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  76. loved the show and thought both familys where lovely.Good luck with your sewing course sharon hope you have a great holiday.
    Posted by jo jo on 30/07/2009 22:06:38
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  77. What an amazing programme. It is so heartwarming to see both families get to grips with each other's lifestyles and understand how life is for each of them. The poverty trap is one which many families can find themselves in often due to no fault of their own and I hope this programme will help to knock down the stereotypes of 'rich' and 'poor' and allow people to see, particularly, that children are just children no matter their personal circumstances.
    Posted by Katb on 30/07/2009 22:06:00
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  78. when the 2 young lades almost cried together halfway through the show me and my wife couldn't talk as we were so choked. this has happened time and time again in the show. good show channel 4. hope you young ladies stay friends 4ever. life is short. we survived the tsunami. we found the people who helped us and didn't realise we'd helped them. life is a glimpse at the truth of what were here for. big love to all involved in this show, stay strong. :-)
    Posted by andy perry on 30/07/2009 21:59:05
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  79. I found this program very touching just when we thought human kindness had gone out of the window and not everyone is just looking for a meal ticket. Hope Yolanda and her children do well and well done Ken and Christine for being a good judge of character and keeping your feet on the ground x
    Posted by Lisa on 30/07/2009 21:48:15
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  80. i dont want to disrespect anyone or anything but i'm a single mum living in a council house, with 2 children and i'm living on less money than the 'poor' family on the television, and i dont class myself as living in poverty...im on half of what the family receives and altho im left with next to nothing at the end of the week i manage and my kids dont want for anything...and to be honest money isnt what keeps a family together its being happy, my children might not have the best of things but they are happy, well fed, clean and clothed and they are doing really well at school...i dont work as i have to look after them and i cant afford the child care costs so for now im stuck on benefits but its what i have to do to keep my family together. we love each other thats the main thing, we are rich in love and money isnt that important to us
    Posted by aMuMmY on 30/07/2009 21:16:05
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  81. Wow, this project looks really exciting. Having just returned from a Norfolk Schools Trip to the slums in Kenya, I am inspired that there could be an opportunity to give impoverished London children some respite and taste some fresh sea air during the summer hols.....If you are reading this and can help me...please email me.....loved secret millionaire Michaela D
    Posted by Michaela D on 29/07/2009 23:04:11
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  82. i would love to live with a rich family just temporarily just to see and feel how it is. also the family gatherings must be great, id love to celebrate christmas or birthdays in a rich house it must be so nice to have family round at a special time....
    Posted by marie on 27/07/2009 23:55:14
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  83. this girl yolanda is in my school even though she has this problem she is wonderful at mths and she carries on her life as a normal child and you don't belive you'll see me in the show
    Posted by yasmin flower on 24/07/2009 22:23:51
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  84. whopeee were on tv !!!!
    Posted by family on 18/07/2009 09:45:30
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