Watch: ITV News Meridian’s Harry Acton spoke to the Wall’s family at their home in Southampton.A family from Southampton are preparing to move thousands of miles across the globe to dedicate their lives to helping some of the most isolated people on the planet.Richard and Christine, are taking their two children Eloise and Rupert, to Papua New Guinea (PNG).The family hope it will give them a new purpose in life, and will be working with the charity, Mission Aviation Fellowship (MAF), to make a difference to communities in the country.Richard, who is a qualified pilot, will take up a new role flying small supply planes in the region, which are critical in navigating the more than 600 islands that make up PNG.Christine, who used to work for British Airways as cabin crew, will at first take up a role homeschooling the children, as there is no education in the country.Both say they are ready to face the challenges, but acknowledge it won’t be easy.”We’ve had a really comfortable life here”, Christine told ITV Meridian.”It has been really comfortable, and we have been doing 9 to 5 and everything, but we just really feel our skills can be used over there.
“I am lucky enough that I have my pilot’s license”.Richard said.”It wasn’t cheap to get in the first place, but we can use those skills to be able to help and work alongside communities that otherwise wouldn’t have that help and support.”The Wall’s family say they’re excited to move thousands of miles away.The couple say they’re hopeful that the children will adjust to their new environment.They sought expert advice before deciding to make the move.As they are both young, the family have been told they should thrive in their new environments.If they have any problems they will be supported by MAF, who have already helped families relocate to the region from the UK.The charity has been active for 75 years, and relies on families like the Wall’s, to help them with their mission.
Papua New Guinea has some of the most treacherous terrain in the world, and the light aircraft funded by MAF play a key role in keeping the islands connected.The charity has also introduced solar power and some limited technology to the islands, to bring the diverse communities closer together.The Wall’s will be out in PNG for around 4 years, but will be able to stay for longer if they choose too.They know it will be tough, but hope that they and the children will thrive.Want a quick and expert briefing on the biggest news stories? Listen to our latest podcasts to find out What You Need To Know.