University Student Champions Care Leavers Through Powerful Film Project

Teo Smith, a student at Solent University, is making waves by giving a voice to young people leaving the care system. Partnering with the charity Step by Step and the university's creative agency, Solent Creatives, Smith is involved in a compelling film project that seeks to highlight the challenges faced by care leavers across the south of England.

A Collaborative Effort for Change

The film, titled "18 Isn’t Cheaper," aims to advocate for better financial support for care leavers as they transition into adulthood. Many of these young individuals lose crucial support at 18, which can significantly impact their ability to thrive independently. Smith's collaboration with Step by Step has been described as a "brilliant experience" by Nic Goom, the charity's head of strategic marketing and external affairs. Goom emphasized the authenticity the student team brought to the project, noting that their involvement has strengthened the film's impact.

Real Stories, Real Impact

Throughout the project, Smith interviewed care leavers in locations such as Winchester and London, as well as filming with local MP Alex Baker in Westminster. Reflecting on his experience, Smith shared, “This project has helped me to further develop both my practical production skills and my confidence working outside of a university setting.” He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to apply his academic knowledge in a real-world context while learning the importance of respectful storytelling.

Advocating for Policy Changes

Through this film, Step by Step hopes to influence policymakers to consider revising Universal Credit rates for care leavers aged 18 to 24. This objective underscores the film's purpose not merely as a documentary but as a call to action for systemic change. The combination of creative storytelling and genuine narratives from the community demonstrates a powerful approach to addressing significant social issues.

As Smith concluded, listening to the stories of care leavers has been “eye-opening and genuinely inspiring,” reminding us of the critical importance of representing the voices of the underrepresented in our society.