Channel 5 orders trio of poverty docs

UK free-to-air broadcaster Channel 5 has ordered three documentaries about poverty and debt as UK viewers and broadcasters continue to show strong interest in the subject.

The thee one-offs will all be produced by Sony-backed producer Silver River.

Britain’s Biggest Debtor will look at the stories of four of Britain’s most debt-ridden individuals and the impact their situation has had on them and their families, including a woman whose £500 loan ended up costing her £128,000.

Fingers in the Till will look at employee theft in the workplace and Taken to the Cleaners will follow people who have been conned out of money by their friends or family.

Jason Wells, commissioning executive, factual and features at Channel 5, said “These films explore three shocking scenarios occurring in Britain today and show how the desire or desperation to have the money needed can lead to terrible consequences.”

Ash Potterton, executive producer at Silver River, added: “In tough times like these, money matters more than ever. These films contain powerful and moving stories which will get people to think twice about the dangers of financial disaster.”