Student project to destigmatise loneliness among young people in West Norfolk
Students at Lynn's College of West Anglia are shining a light on loneliness and isolation among young people in their latest project.
Producing a series of videos in partnership with the Lily Service, the CWA media department worked collaboratively to engage a younger audience.
The Lily Service is provided by the borough council and helps adults in West Norfolk to develop friendships and engage in the local community.
Rebekah Bensley-Mills, Lily co-ordinator, said: "We really wanted to challenge the pre-conceived stigmatisation of loneliness as something that mostly elderly people experience. We know from the work that we do that this is simply not true.
"We work with lots of young people, many of who are carers, are perhaps struggling with employment or are simply experiencing feelings of loneliness and isolation, especially at this time."
Scripting and creating a series of three video clips, the students focused on two scenarios highlighting the loneliness and isolation felt by a young carer, and a young person dealing with the pressures of social media.
Creative Media student, Darcey Wood acted in one of the video clips and recognises the isolation that younger people can face. She said: "It was really fun to be a part of as I had never heard of this organisation before, it taught me a lot about it and the important services they offer. I'm glad I could be a part of it."
They filmed the video clips last year as part of a work placement to raise awareness of how these situations can lead to young people feeling lonely and isolated, the clips are due to be released on Lily's social media channels soon.
Performing Arts student Owen Richards said: “Filming this gave me an insight into what it must be like to be a young carer and the challenges they face. It also gave me experience of the filming world!”
Cllr Elizabeth Nockolds, deputy leader and cabinet member for Culture, Heritage and Health said: “I’m pleased to see Lily working with the College of West Anglia to produce videos that highlight loneliness and social isolation that can effect some young people.
"I believe these messages are being sent out at the right time as winter nights draw in and we all continue to live through the pandemic. The videos remind young people that support is available from Lily and I would encourage them to seek it out.”
Lily co-ordinator Rebekah hopes it will encourage young people who may be experiencing these feelings to get in touch with the Lily Service. She said: “Lily is here to help adults of all ages who may be feeling lonely or isolated. Anyone who would like support can get in touch with Lily by calling 01553 616200 or visiting www.asklily.org.uk. Contact can also be made via the Lily social media channels.”
Work placement co-ordinator for Creative Arts, Hayley Rudd, said: “This is a fantastic project for our students to be engaged with and they are perfectly placed to reflect the youth voice and engage with a younger audience. “
Pictured from L to R: CWA students Emily Wilson, Owen Richards and Darcey Wood
