A BOURNEMOUTH couple are giving up their jobs and home to help children living in the Filipino slums.

Jan Wyatt, a nurse at Bournemouth Hospital’s surgical ward, and her engineer husband Derek are heading to Manila in July to set up a medical centre, pre-school, church and feeding project.

They have already sold their house, but are desperate for more funds to get the project started.

Jan, 52, said she had “a calling from God” to help the poverty-stricken children after becoming a Christian five years ago.

She said: “I developed a heart for kids and poverty. I’ve been to Guatamala and Romania and as a result of seeing the poverty in these countries it’s hard to walk away from it.

“You come back and that’s still in your head. We went to the Philippines last year and when we came back we knew that was where we were going to go.”

While visiting China for her son’s wedding three years ago Jan, of Newlands Road, met a Filipino pastor who told her he had had a dream about a missionary couple who would come to the Philippines to help.

Jan said: “We’re now trying to raise awareness. We need donations and sponsorship and all the proceeds raised will go towards the project.”

The couple are also organising Filipino-themed fundraising night at the Annunciation Church Hall in Charminster Road on Saturday May 5, from 7pm to 10pm.

A £10 donation is requested for tickets, which are available from Derek or Jan on 07906 586080 or on the night.

Jan added: “Most people think they can’t make a difference, so they don’t even try.

“It’s not about the big problem it’s about what you can do. Even if it’s just one life you’ve changed.

“Once these kids have got their confidence and their self-worth back and you give them hope and show them somebody cares, you give them a future.”