Real Stories: Couple in 80s who have dedicated their lives to helping young people in need
Tonight, Michael Underwood meets a remarkable couple who’ve opened their home, and their hearts, to hundreds of young people in need.
Terry and Ann Panks are no ordinary octogenarians - their work has changed countless lives.
Right now, they look after nine young men. They all live together in a converted police station in Wythenshawe, Manchester. The house - called Copperdale - is technically a hostel - but it’s more like a big family home.
Every evening Terry and Ann cook a meal for those staying with them. But in addition to ensuring they eat well - they provide much more: compassion, stability, understanding, and a sense of belonging.
Over nearly 40 years, it’s thought that they’ve provided a home for more than a thousand young people. Some are there because of problems at home, a few are in trouble with the law, all are desperate for help.
Ann and Terry’s work is not easy: over the years they’ve had to deal with drugs, weapons and violence in their home. Terry was attacked by one resident, while Ann has had precious jewellery stolen - including her wedding ring.
But these unfortunate events haven’t put them off. Rather, they see the hostel as something they were destined to do. The motivation is simple, says Ann:
Watch the video below to see what is to come in tonight’s episode of Real Stories.
Don’t miss Real Stories with Ranvir Singh on ITV at 7:30pm as Michael Underwood meets the extraordinary couple who’ve dedicated their lives to helping young people with nowhere else to go. Let us know your thoughts using #RealStories on social media.
For more updates, follow us here:
Useful links: