Church brings home reality of life for ‘street children’

The photographic exhibition, hosted by UK charity Street Action, is being staged at Bradford Cathedral from Wednesday, October 3.

It has been organised by Andy Baines, son of the Bishop of Bradford Nick Baines, along with two photographers, Lizzie Everard and Bex Morton, all of whom have spent time working with the street children.

Andy Baines said he had come across some amazing stories during his travels.

”Throughout the six months I worked with the projects in South Africa and Burundi, the children’s stories never ceased to amaze me. From young Derek, who arrived alone on Burundi’s streets aged two but who is now attending school, to 13 year old Nthando in Durban who has become South African surfing champion through the charity’s rehabilitation programme, I was continually inspired by the charity’s vision for helping these kids escape a life of danger and destitution.

“Street Action not only supports the projects financially, but aims to raise awareness of the issues faced by these street children in order to create longer lasting change. This exhibition aims to do exactly that, offering a glimpse into some of these children’s lives.”

Bishop Baines said he found the photos “challenging”.

”The photos offer a moving and challenging insight into the lives of the street children.

“They’re on the streets due to a multitude of poverty related issues and their lives can be extremely traumatic: the fact that many of these photos show beaming and affectionate children makes them all the more poignant.”

The opening night - on October 3, 6.30-9.30pm - will include talks from Street Action representatives including Tom Hewitt who founded Umthombo, the South Africa street child project.

The charity Street Action works with children who are forced to work on the streets to support their families and those who have no family connections.

The exhibition continues until October 26, and is open until 4.40pm each day.

Further information from www.streetaction.org/ourstreets