Channel 4 Orders Doc on Teen Moms

LONDON: Channel 4 has commissioned the Oxford Scientific Films observational documentary House of Teen Mums.

The hour-long documentary film focuses on five young mothers who each spend the first year of their child’s life living in a YMCA hostel during a time when affordable housing is scarce. The moms share their stories and offer insight into what it’s like to become a parent as a teenager without a permanent home. The YMCA Mother & Baby unit houses young moms and their infant children.

Emily Jones, Channel 4’s education commissioning editor, said: “Given the shortage of affordable housing, it is important to tell the stories of the many young people who don’t have a permanent home. These young mothers show us they are no different than any other parent during those precious early days of motherhood—full of love, struggling to do their best—but in exceptionally challenging circumstances.”

Emma Morgan, executive producer for the film, added: “Behind each door in the YMCA hostel we discovered a unique story that completely went against the stereotype of a teen mum. We were surprised not only by their resilience in the face of adversity but by their wit, humor and hope for the future.”

House of Teen Mums was commissioned by Jones. It is executive produced by Morgan and produced, filmed and directed by Mel Beer. House of Teen Mums is being distributed internationally by Twofour Rights.