Student helps tell the story of care leavers in England

To help spread the message of the essential need for ongoing financial support aimed at young people leaving the care system, Solent Creatives worked alongside BA (Hons) Television Production student, Teo Smith to capture the experiences of those Step by Step exists to serve.

Teo and Solent Creatives travelled to various communities in the south of England – including Winchester, Aldershot and London – to meet care leavers. The team also visited Westminster, where they filmed with Labour representative for Aldershot and Farnborough, Alex Baker MP.

The film forms part of a campaign which advocates for continued support for care leavers who, when they turn 18, no longer receive the same financial support they once did. Nic Goom, Step by Step’s Head of Strategic Marketing and External Affairs, says:

“Partnering with Solent Creatives has been a brilliant experience. Teo and the student team brought a genuine understanding and authenticity to the 18 Isn’t Cheaper film, which is based on research led by young people from Step by Step.

“Having young creatives help tell a story shaped by lived experience has made the final piece stronger, more honest, and more impactful. We’re incredibly grateful for the passion and professionalism they brought to this project.”

Solent Creatives connects students to paid opportunities with external clients in a bid to boost their CVs and give them real-world experience. Teo, who was recruited to capture the stories of care leavers, says:

“This project has helped me to further develop both my practical production skills and my confidence working outside of a university setting. It has been really nice to apply all my skills and knowledge to a different context and purpose; it’s given me the chance to apply what I’ve learned in a real-world context and to approach storytelling with more sensitivity and intention.”

As a civic university, Solent works closely with communities to connect its staff, students and resources to meaningful projects which have wider benefits. On the experience of working with Step by Step on this campaign, Teo says:

“Meeting community members and hearing about their experiences has been one of the most meaningful parts of the project. It’s been eye-opening and genuinely inspiring to listen to their stories, and it’s reminded me of the importance of representing people's voices respectfully and authentically.”

As part of this campaign, Step by Step is urging policymakers to review the Universal Credit rate for care leavers aged between 18 and 24. The voices Teo and Solent Creatives captured will play a key role in that goal.