Students make vital difference to local charity

This month, a group of media production students worked with City Life Church, a long-running charity in the heart of Southampton, to deliver a high-quality campaign which addresses homelessness.

Produced, filmed and edited by students as part of their 'producing for social media' module, the short film follows the journey of one man in winter as he navigates being homeless. The minute-long film, which demonstrates the impact of homelessness on individuals, is driving support for City Life Church and encouraging communities to get involved in helping others.

City Life Church Leader, Paul Woodman, says:

"It was a delight to work with students to bring our project alive with this short film depicting the journey of someone moving from the cold streets to a warm bed. The response to the video has been superb with hundreds of views, and over hundreds of pounds donated in the first few days of it being shared. The students worked hard to deliver this project in a short time frame helping us to raise funds for the winter beds programme starting in January."

The film promotes The Lighthouse Church, which in January 2024 intends to open its doors and provide beds to people experiencing homelessness. The students' film highlights the great work of volunteers in the city and humanises the experience of being a homeless person. As a direct result of this work, City Life Church received more than £400 in donations on the weekend the short film went live, reaching £700.

Solent student, Oscar Griffiths, says:

"City Life Church is a great client to work with; they are incredibly welcoming and very passionate about their work, which motivated us to do our best for them.

"During this time, I've gained valuable knowledge on working as part of a team with a client. It has been a huge confidence boost to see that our campaign has been a success and I feel honoured that we've been able to support City Life Church. I will look back on this experience fondly."

Every year, Media Production students at Solent University work with clients across the city to provide sought-after skills that grow a business's brand, reputation and reach. In the past year, undergraduates have, among others, worked with City Life Church, Engine Rooms, Robin's Nest and Coffeeology.

Dr Roy Hanney, Associate Professor of Film and Media at Solent University, says:

"This kind of project not only benefits the students in terms of practical experience and portfolio building, it also supports Solent University's civic objectives and is a great example of how universities can enrich the cultural and economic landscape of a city."