Benefits Street backlash prompts Channel 4 to commission live debate
Channel 4 will host a live debate about issues raised by its controversial programme Benefits Street next month following an intense public backlash to the show.
Programme: A resident on 'Benefits Street'
The broadcaster received hundreds of complaints when the show first aired less than a fortnight ago and the programme has sparked debate across the country. Criticism has ranged from people expressing anger at the benefits system to accusations that Channel 4’s representation of people who use the benefits system is misleading.
In response, Channel 4 has commissioned Mentorn Media to produce an interactive live debate on Monday 10 February at 10pm, chaired by Richard Bacon. Panellists will be confirmed later.
Ralph Lee, Channel 4 head of factual, said: This is a series which reflects the reality of day-today life for some of the residents of a single street who, for the most part, rely on benefits to survive.
“It does not and never has set out to reflect the experiences of every person who received benefits yet it has triggered a national debate about state welfare at a time in which further welfare reforms are being proposed.
“We feel it is timely to provide a forum in which these issues can be raised and discussed.”
Hayley Valentine, director of current affairs at Mentorn Media, added: “It is vital that voices on all sides are heard, and we are pleased to be providing a forum for both public figures and viewers to debate the series that has brought a pertinent political issue to life so vividly.”
Benefits Street was filmed over a 12-month period on a street in Birmingham where, according to Channel 4, the majority of households are dependent on benefits.