Sorry We Missed You

Ricky Turner and his family are hit hard by the 2008 financial crash, which leaves them grappling with insurmountable debt. Their financial challenges set the stage for a tense and chaotic future as they struggle to make ends meet.

In a bid to alleviate their financial burden, Ricky secures a position as a self-employed delivery driver running a franchise. This job represents a glimmer of hope for Ricky, although it comes with strict oversight from his demanding employer, Maloney.

To support their tight financial situation, Ricky persuades his wife, Abby, to sell their family car, which is essential for her job as a home care nurse. This decision deepens the strain on their relationship and places additional pressure on Abby's already hectic schedule.

Ricky faces mounting challenges as he struggles to meet the strict delivery deadlines set by Maloney. The pressure results in hefty fines for tardiness or mistakes, compounding Ricky's stress and leading to further disruption at home.

Ricky and Abby's son, Seb, starts acting out in school, skipping classes and engaging in graffiti as a form of rebellion against his family's struggles. His troubles reflect the family's emotional distress and escalating challenges within the household.

After a tense confrontation with his parents, Seb vandalizes family portraits in a display of anger. This act underscores the growing rifts within the family unit and highlights Seb's turmoil as he tries to process the family's situation.

The following morning, Ricky's inability to find his van keys leads him to irrationally blame Seb for their disappearance. Despite Seb's protests of innocence, a heated argument ensues, resulting in Ricky losing his temper and physically hitting his son, deepening the emotional divide.

In a heartfelt moment, Ricky's younger daughter, Liza Jane, reveals that she hid the keys, believing her father's job was causing their family's issues. Her innocent confession adds a layer of guilt to Ricky's already burdened conscience.

While on the job, Ricky endures a horrific incident where he is robbed and brutally assaulted during a delivery. This violent encounter shocks him and exacerbates the already severe pressure on his mental and emotional wellbeing.

Ricky is treated for his injuries at the hospital, only to receive a call from Maloney, informing him that he will incur fines exceeding £1,000 due to a damaged scanner from the assault. This news leaves Ricky feeling hopeless and trapped in a never-ending cycle of financial despair.

Following the assault, Seb begins to soften and reconnect with his family, demonstrating their need for unity in the face of adversity. This shift introduces a glimmer of hope as they strive to support each other through their hardships.

Despite his visible injuries and the concerns of his family, Ricky prepares to leave for work once again. The emotional plea from his family to stay home highlights the anxiety and turmoil lurking beneath the surface of their lives.