Our Voice Our Time

During the pandemic, and in response to local tensions around anti-social behaviour, we began meeting and talking to young people in Colne in the places where they were spending time after dark. Our Voice Our Time was commissioned by Pendle Youth Forum. It presents the voices and experiences of young people, developed through street-based work during the pandemic. The film responds to reports of anti-social behaviour and reflects the wider impact of austerity cuts, youth service closures and the lack of safe, accessible spaces for young people to gather. Working alongside Pendle Youth Forum and Lancashire County Council’s youth team, we met groups aged 11–18 in parks, streets and car parks, using a detached youth work approach that prioritised listening and trust. Through ongoing contact, a core group formed, leading to regular creative sessions and the development of the film. Filmmaker Nick Farrimond worked alongside youth workers to create a space for young people to articulate their experiences, frustrations and hopes, using film as a process for dialogue, reflection and visibility.