At Christmas

The first film finds out what the festive season is like for those sleeping rough. They include 35-year-old Cathy, who became homeless after losing her job, and single mum Emily, who was moved into temporary accommodation but did not believe it was in any fit state for her two young children. Unless the council can find them alternative housing, the family face the prospect of Christmas on the streets.

At a time of year traditionally spent with family and friends, four million people in the UK will be spending the festive holiday alone. This film tells the story of people who found themselves in that situation during Christmas 2014. They include 82-year-old Cathy, who usually goes away for the holiday but has decided to stay at home for the first time - a prospect made more difficult by her arthritis. Nineteen-year-old Michael has been in care homes since he was seven but now he is taking care of himself, and single dad Phil, who lives with his son, is left alone while his 11-year-old goes to stay with his mum for Christmas.

hristmas is a costly time of the year for anyone - so what is it like for people who have little or no money? This documentary explores the sacrifices they have to make to ensure their families have the best time possible. Those featured include Lancashire couple Kevin and Karla, who are unable to work because he is her full-time carer, and have taken to searching for free gifts on social media. Blackpool woman Karen is facing her first Christmas on benefits after a lung condition prevented her from working, while in Cornwall, mum of five Danni has a winter wedding to think about, so takes out another payday loan.

Documentary filmed around the clock between Christmas Eve and Boxing Day 2014, exploring what it is like preparing for Christmas for a family that is larger in number than most, and the costs involved in making sure everyone has a day to remember. In Kent, Kirsty lives with her nine children, plus her granddaughter, and she and husband Gary admit that the season is a constant juggling act trying to keep the finances in check. Meanwhile, Dorset couple Pete and Tracy need a mountain of food to keep their reunited family of 25 fed and watered.