麻豆约拍

Every year as much as 拢16bn is sent around the world by migrant workers in the UK, more than our overseas aid budget. But with around 10% wiped off Sterling鈥檚 value following the Brexit vote these remittances are under pressure. Still, as this programme finds out, it鈥檚 not only driven by economics.

In this programme Nihal Arthanayake hears the powerful stories of the people here who send much of their salaries home, interlaced with the poetry of Radio 4鈥檚 market updates.

Growing up in the UK to Sri Lankan parents, presenter Nihal Arthanayake was well-versed in the many layers of remittance-sending: 鈥渕y parents sent regular consignments of M&S bras鈥� he recalls, 鈥渋t was a kind of alternative currency.鈥�

As he discovers, 鈥楻emittance鈥� has multiple meanings. It reveals a pride in success, and an honour in being able to provide for poorer relatives back home. Above all, it鈥檚 deeply often emotional, about being apart from loved ones.

From a chef in Manchester to a restaurant worker in Windsor, Nihal meets workers from the Philippines, Romania and Kenya to hear the distinct stories behind their Remittance.

While long hours and family separation are making life difficult for all, money is having different impacts: strengthening the bonds of some families but creating tension within others.

It鈥檚 a story Nihal regularly hears. He also explores the issue that the billions of pounds sent home annually is money not being spent in the UK.

Nihal explores the prejudices, politics and pride that accompany this multi-billion pound world.

Producer: Harry Kretchmer

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