Couple frustrated by misrepresentation on wedding reality show

Ten years ago, Andrew Prosser and Joanna Griffiths decided to get married live on TV to show how people on benefits can budget for a wedding. Their wedding was featured on Channel 5’s program "The Great Big Benefits Wedding." However, the couple felt the show portrayed them unfairly, as lazy people living on handouts. Joanna explained that they hoped to show that a wedding on a tight budget is possible. Andrew was once a successful businessman but had to claim benefits after being diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. Joanna said society often stereotypes people on benefits, overlooking their tough circumstances. The producers of the show aimed to highlight the struggles of their wedding planning. Joanna did many things herself to save money, like making the wedding cake and decorations. However, some family members were hesitant to attend the wedding, fearing the stigma of being associated with a benefits show. On the wedding day, Joanna felt the filming made it hard to enjoy the ceremony. It was interrupted for commercial breaks, which made it feel less like a real wedding. In hindsight, she expressed regret about some aspects of the show and how they were portrayed. Despite mixed public reactions, some viewers responded positively, feeling the couple deserved their celebration. The couple received a honeymoon gift but did not get paid for the show. After their wedding, they faced significant health issues. Joanna had cancer, which required major surgery, and tragically lost a daughter. Andrew also suffered serious health problems and both Andrew and Joanna struggle to work now, relying on benefits. Joanna expresses frustration with their living situation. She is aware of the stigma attached to being on benefits and argues that their situation is not a choice. The couple currently receives about £340 in Universal Credit payments every two weeks, along with Andrew’s disability benefits.