Budding directors at a Southampton university have created a series of short films for the NHS.

Nine short films have been produced by a group of 28 students from Solent University, Southampton, for use by the Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust.

This marks the third successive year in which the university and the trust have collaborated on this project.

The students, who are studying Television Production and Post Production for Film and Television, were tasked with creating impactful short films to support key services across mental and community health in the region.

Sarah Reed, communications and media manager for Southern Health, said: "I have been so excited and indeed moved to see the creative ideas the students have come up with to raise awareness of vital mental health issues.

"As a trust we have been impressed by students’ professional approach to the projects and their empathic approach to the sensitive nature of the content.

"I have really enjoyed working with them over the past few months and have had excellent feedback from the staff and patients they have been working with.

"The students can be proud that their project will help others to get the support they need."

According to trust, an impressive series of films has been produced, shedding light on a range of themes relevant to communities in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. Subjects explored include mental and physical well-being, cyberbullying, teenage parenting, and sexual health awareness.

On April 25, the films were screened at a special event at Solent University, attended by staff, students and members of Southern Health. The event aimed to commend the students’ abilities and reflect upon the themes brought up in the films.

Will Swain, second-year Television Production student, said: "Working with a real-world client has really boosted my work ethic and taught me industry processes. This experience has boosted the other opportunities I have at University, such as Sonar Events and Solent Productions, where I gain more skills for such a big industry."

The partnership offers students valuable practical experience, while delivering high-quality content for Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust.

The films serve to battle stigmas and promote discussion around the explored issues, thus benefiting students and their communities.