Havering Council rolled out the red carpet at the Lumiere Cinema in Romford for a truly special occasion this week, the premiere of five powerful short films created by local young people.
The event marked a significant milestone in the borough’s journey to embed its priorities from the Integrated Starting Well Plan: Happy, Healthy Lives.
The films, co-produced by Havering Youth Council and The Habbit Factory, brought to life the borough’s WISH for every child and young person – to be 'Well, Inspired, Safe and Heard' - and an important fifth priority which runs through the WISH, for children and young people to be 'Treated Fairly'.
These priorities, shaped by children and young people in the borough, are at the heart of Havering’s vision for a child-centred future.
From scripting and performing to filming, young people played a leading role both on screen and behind the scenes, ensuring that every frame reflects their voices and their lived experiences.
The event was attended by Councillor Oscar Ford, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, Councillor Gillian Ford, deputy leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Adults and Wellbeing, Tara Geere, Director of Children’s Services, other council officers and family members, all united in their support for the borough’s youngest residents.
Councillor Oscar Ford, Havering Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, said:
“This premiere is more than a showcase. It’s a statement. It shows that when we give young people the tools and the trust to tell their stories, they create something truly powerful.
“It was fitting that they should receive their own film premiere to acknowledge their work, talent and creativity. A special thank you goes out to the young people and everyone who helped to make this possible.”
To watch the films and learn more about the Happy, Healthy Lives Plan, visit Our WISH for Havering’s Children and Young People.