Scottish Homelessness Involvement and Empowerment Network

What is your activity?

SHEN (Scottish Homelessness & Employability Network) commissioned a short film to be used as an aid in the provision of training and as an awareness raising tool. The opportunity to develop, feature in, and create the film was advertised to the service users of SHEN members from around the country. The process was undertaken over the course of seven weeks, with service users coming from different areas to Edinburgh, committing half a day each week to the creation of the film, “The Space is the Place”. The creation of the film was supported by a professional director.

What were the benefits?

A group of ten service users (the majority of whom were in supported accommodation) were able increase their skills in a range of areas such as timekeeping and undertaking commitments; creative development; negotiation and compromise; group work; technical understanding of filming processes; working to deadlines, and following a process from inception to completion.

The service users shaped and decided upon the style and content of the film and as such the messages within it. Those making the film felt that their voice in relation to their experiences had a platform from which to be heard on many levels. They also felt strongly give something positive to raise awareness of homelessness. The film, therefore, has credibility and personal impact. Having a film that is online and as a hard copy means that there was a tangible result that participants could share with others.

All seven participants who completed the full 7 weeks of the project reported increased confidence, self-esteem and desire to become involved in further projects.

What were the pros?

The project offered a great degree of accessibility in that the bulk of the project was ideas based, meaning that literacy issues were not a barrier.

Participants were able to contribute in many ways – by giving ideas; undertaking technical aspects such as stills photography; working out the script and locations; appearing on screen, doing voiceovers; choosing music – which meant that participation could be tailored to suit individual requirements; skills and aspirations.

Filmmaking in relation to personal experiences is by necessity rooted in trust. This trust can then be a transformative power in influencing services/someone’s personal journey.

The film allowed the service users to reflect on their experiences from a distance which some said was very therapeutic.

The development process and trust established meant that those involved all improved their social networks as a result.

Film is a very flexible medium and the end result can be used in many different ways and to reach different audiences.

Although there are many positive benefits film-making is generally perceived as a new and fun activity.

In our experience all of the group were new to the process which meant that there was no hierarchy relating to previous knowledge or experience

What were the cons?

The film ended up being quite different to how I imagined it – although this could seem like a con in reality it was a good thing as it meant that the film was very much about the service users’ stories of choice as opposed to any vision being imposed on the process. Important, therefore, to let go and accept altered expectations.

The logistics were quite tricky in terms of people coming from different areas; this had an impact upon cost and also meant added commitment for those who lived further away (which luckily wasn’t an issue). 

Location shots were also restricted in terms of travel options and associated time implications and costs.

The group dynamic in this instance was very positive but there is potential for the project to not be so harmonious.

There is a limit to how many people can be involved in the project in order for it to be feasible.

Costs were fairly high (approximately £2,000) due to using a professional and the travel and venue hire costs involved.

What resources were required?

Film equipment

Venue for holding the creative development and editing sessions

Travel costs

The backing and support of the participants organizations

Time committment

Contact details for your organization/ project (optional)

National Co-ordinator: Clare Archibald

Email: clare@scsh.org.uk

Telephone: 0131 337 8243

Website: www.shen-scotland.org