New films support community mental health

Every year, a cohort of students studying in Solent’s Department of Film and Media have the opportunity to make a difference while they learn. As part of an ongoing collaboration with the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, undergrads are invited to shoot, direct and edit short films which shine a spotlight on mental health and wellbeing.

This unique project has a mutual benefit, giving students opportunities to turn their knowledge into practical experience while providing meaningful resources for communities. Solent’s collaboration with the Trust has been ongoing since 2021, with more than 30 films produced since then in time for Mental Health Awareness Week.

Viki Laakkonen, Chief Medical Officer for Mental Health at Hampshire and Isle of Wight Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, says:

“We really value our close collaborative working with Solent University students. This long-term collaboration not only enhances the students’ filming expertise but importantly helps them strike up meaningful connections with people in the local community, during the filming process. The videos, which involved Southampton City Council (SCC) colleagues, are invaluable health resources which will support people’s mental health, physical health and wellbeing. Well done to everyone involved and we look forward to hearing how the videos are being used.”

This year, 34 students created eight new films, giving them the opportunity to meet different members of the community and raise awareness of key services that support health and wellbeing. As part of this, a group spent time with Southampton City Council’s (SCC) Junior Neighbourhood Wardens, learning about the scheme and celebrating its impact. Television Production student, Spencer Bedder, says:

“This scheme is free for young people across Southampton, and this film will encourage more families to get their children involved, which helps them learn essential life skills while making friends.”

On the experience of working with Solent students to create this film, SCC’s Junior Warden Co-ordinator, Ian Mitchell, says:

“Over the past few months, I have had the pleasure of collaborating with Solent University on the production. Working with them has been an excellent experience – they were professional, approachable, and demonstrated a clear understanding of the brief. The final film exceeded my expectations.

“Beyond their technical skills, I was particularly impressed by the team’s interpersonal approach; they showed great sensitivity to those who were new to being on camera.”

Sensitively made, allowing students to hone their practical skills alongside making new connections, these films explore the power of community in a range of settings. Themes include how community groups play a key role in supporting individuals experiencing challenges with their mental health, anxiety among young adults, and the signs to look out for when it comes to spotting others who might be struggling.

Solent’s Senior Lecturer TV Production, Kate O’Driscoll, says:

“This is an example of real-world learning embedded within the curriculum that gives all our students the opportunity to develop confidence both personally and professionally. This year’s work demonstrates how well the students listened to the brief and worked with clients and contributors to produce creative films with strong messages, raising awareness of mental health.”

This year’s Mental Health Awareness Week, which runs Monday 12 to Sunday 18 May, highlights how important community and connectedness is. While students made their films, they not only had the opportunity to gain real-world experience but make new connections themselves. Spencer says:

“During filming, it was great to get out into the community and meet the young people who benefit from this scheme. It was a great experience, and I feel privileged to give back to the community in this way.

“By working with a real client, we were able to put our technical skills into practice in a range of environments, such as local community centres, and it’s definitely an experience that I’ll take with me into future workplaces.”

Find out more about Solent's film, TV and media courses here.

Watch the films from Monday 12 May here.