Genealogy Chat

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Found is the BBC1 documentary series which explores the emotional and heartfelt stories of foundling and adoption cases, following individuals as they seek to trace their loved ones. The first run of five episodes in May 2006 was acclaimed by viewers and critics alike, leading the BBC to order a new series of five programmes which are about to start filming. The series is presented by Kate Adie, the broadcaster and author who is familiar to viewers from her years as BBC TV’s Chief News Correspondent. Kate was herself adopted and her book Nobody’s Child, published in 2005, offers a compelling insight into the moving and inspiring stories of abandoned children. Each case in the Found series receives a considered portrayal, with all sides of the story explored. Why would a mother abandon or give up her child? What does it feel like to grow up not knowing your real name, where you were born, or even your date of birth? Found explores these sensitive and complex questions, touching on our society’s attitudes towards illegitimacy and ethnicity over the last seventy years. The Found production team works closely with charities such as NORCAP (National Organisation for the Counselling of Adoptees and their Parents) to give abandoned children of all ages an opportunity to trace their past. Filming of each case would take place over two to three days between October and December, combining interviews with reconstructions, although filming would not be possible outside the British Isles. Found’s producers are on the hunt for new cases right now. We welcome calls or emails from individuals who have an extraordinary or heart-warming story to tell, especially those who have personal experience of: • Abandonment • Growing up as a foundling or adoptee, with a deep sense of yearning for the truth. • A background of families split for religious, race, political or economical reasons – these could include experiences of Mother & Baby Homes, church-run institutions and orphanages, and forced child migration to Canada and Australia among others. • A complicated search for family, detective work through libraries & social services • Reunions with loved ones If this is you or someone you know and you would like to be involved or you would like some more information, please contact Oliver Barber or Jane Ayoade as soon as possible at Leopard Films