There’s no denying that raising a child can be financially demanding, considering the costs involved in clothing, feeding, entertaining, and educating them for almost twenty years.
So how exactly does a family known as ‘Britain’s biggest’ manage to cover these expenses, along with $70,000 Disney vacations, while having 22 children?
It’s a valid question, particularly when many are contemplating if they have enough disposable income for a simple treat like takeout, let alone an international trip. Yet, Noel and Sue Radford have found a way to make it work, even if it occasionally leads them to court.
The couple began their parenting journey in their teenage years and are now parents to an extensive brood: Chris, 35, Sophie, 31, Chloe, 29, Jack, 28, Daniel, 26, Luke, 24, Millie, 23, Katie, 22, James, 21, Ellie, 19, Aimee, 18, Josh, 17, Max, 16, Tillie, 14, Oscar, 13, Casper, 12, Haillie, nine, Phoebe, eight, Archie, seven, Bonnie, six, and Heidi, five.
They experienced a tragic loss with one of their children, Alfie, who was stillborn.
The family’s lifestyle came into the limelight when they featured in the reality TV show, 22 Kids and Counting, which has enhanced their financial situation alongside the earnings from their business, Radford’s Pie Company.
The pie company’s website notes its longstanding presence, stating: “We have owned our own lovely bakery since 1999, which is how we manage to provide for (and feed) our huge and expanding family as well as for the local people of Heysham and Morecambe.”
In addition to local sales, the business caters to orders from all over the UK, facilitated through their online platform.
The Radfords also generate income from their social media presence, where they engage in brand partnerships.
Although they’ve admitted to experiencing financial pressure, mom Sue shared with The Mirror their intentions to ‘scale down’ Christmas to save money.
Despite financial challenges, the Radfords were still able to take their massive family to Disney World in Florida this past April, spending a staggering $35,245 on flights alone.
However, the trip had unforeseen consequences, as the parents were summoned to court and found guilty of not ensuring regular school attendance for four of their children.
This resulted in a fine of $87 per child along with $158 in court costs.