Can we bring laughter to a bad situation?

Growing up in poverty comes with a higher risk of emotional and physical abuse. What can clowns do to help?

Oxford University researchers have teamed up with Clowns Without Borders, and together they're trying to bring laughter to families around the world - in particular, families affected by HIV/AIDS, or living in poverty. They've developed a programme to strengthen relationships within these families, encouraging teens and caregivers to spend time together, learn from each other, and trust each other. 

It's completely free and open to anyone, and the programme is already being rolled out by governments and NGOs in 8 African countries. They will reach over a hundred and fifty thousand families before the year is out!

Clowning around never seemed so serious!