2. Opt to Adopt

Available for 183 days

Stand-up comedian Ashley Blaker tells the story of how the Blakers added to their large, hectic domestic life. They decided to adopt a little girl with Down Syndrome. Series featuring a mix of stand-up and observational documentary, all recorded in the Blakers’ home with the voices of his real family, and tackling parenting, adoption and raising children with special needs. As parents of six children, Ashley and his wife Gemma are trying to raise a family in a world that is only really set up for having two. What's more, the Blakers’ children are not just any kids. Three have special needs – two autistic boys and an adopted girl with Down Syndrome – and the show - with sensitivity - finds the funny side of raising children with disabilities and also adoption. Written and performed by Ashley Blaker Ashley is joined by: Shelley Blond Kieran Hodgson Rosie Holt Judith Jacob Also appearing as themselves are Ashley’s own children: Ami Ophie Simi Soroh Sruly Bina Producer: Steve Doherty A Giddy Goat production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in July 2021.