Charity Film Award nomination for Hold Out A Hand

The film was commissioned by Worcestershire County Council Public Health for Travellers Times and produced by Rural Media, a local production company and charity producing award-winning films and digital arts projects.

Hold Out A Hand is a powerful short film that aims to stimulate conversations about mental health and suicide within the Gypsy and Traveller community. The film hopes to encourage people to reach out to engage with mental health and suicide prevention support services.

Now that entries have closed, charities have four weeks to gain votes on their films. The charities with the largest number of votes make it onto the shortlist and become finalists. There is then another voting round, also lasting four weeks, before the ceremony in March 2023.

It is now over to the public to vote for their favourite film. The first round of voting is open to the public and closes on 10 January.

To vote visit the Smiley Charity Film Awards website.

Councillor Karen May, Cabinet Member for Health and Wellbeing said: "Hold Out A Hand is a poignant reminder of the importance of seeking support for those experiencing suicidal thoughts.

“We are extremely proud of those involved with the production of the film and shining a light on the importance of signposting to support for those within the Traveller community."

Nic Millington, CEO of Rural Media added: “We are delighted that Hold out a Hand has been recognised with this nomination. Rural Media has a reputation, locally and nationally for telling powerful stories from unheard voices and nurturing creative talent. I am extremely proud of all those who worked on the film, which has highlighted an overlooked issue of mental health within the Gypsy and Traveller community ”

Anyone struggling to cope with mental health issues and needing urgent help can call Herefordshire and Worcestershire’s Mental Health Helpline on 0808 196 9127.

If you have had mental health training which includes suicide prevention and want to get involved visit the Now We’re Talking website to apply for your Orange Button.