Young people create powerful documentary about autism

Twenty-seven autistic young people from three Lambeth schools have created a powerful documentary, ‘Autism: A Unique Life’, to raise awareness of autism, challenge stereotypes and share their lived experiences.

Funded by the SEL ICB All Age Autism Fund, Lambeth Council partnered with local production company Chocolate Films Workshops to deliver documentary-making workshops to the young people aged 11–19 from three local schools: Elm Court School, La Retraite School and London Nautical School, City of London Academy.

Each school took part in five workshop sessions to develop the concept of their film, learn how to use the filming equipment, film their video and learn how to edit. The result of their hard work is a 20-minute documentary made up of three short films – one from each school.

The film aligns with two key priorities of Lambeth’s All Age Autism Strategy, to improve understanding and awareness of autism, which is the aim of the film, and to support more autisitic indviduals into employment. We reached this goal through upskilling the young people in digital film and media and we partnered with AQA’s Unit Award Scheme to provide all participants with accredited certificates. The young people involved expressed that through the workshops they become more confident, developed skills in communication and patience and felt a new pride in their identity.

Help us spread the word

The film is now available to watch on Lambeth Council’s YouTube channel. It’s aimed at professionals working with children and young people with autism, school peers and the wider community.

We would love your support in spreading the word and reaching our target audiences – please watch and share the film with your networks and consider using it as a training and awareness resource in your settings.

To help us measure its impact, please complete this short feedback form.

To find out more, or if you plan to use the film in any way, please contact Lulu lpinkney@lambeth.gov.uk so we can track its reach and impact.