“Where’s Our Support?” Documentary Premieres at B:CAN Network Launch – Youth Voices Echo Across Birmingham
At the launch event for the Birmingham Community Anchor Network (B:CAN), held at the prestigious Alexander Stadium, an unforgettable moment unfolded—one that centred the voices of young people in a room filled with civic leaders, community champions, and change-makers from across the city.
Our youth-led documentary “Where’s Our Support?” was presented at the beginning of the event by Zain Khan, our Youth Development Officer at Our Community Foundation. As the opening scenes played out on the big screen, a deep silence fell over the room. The voices of young people from Alum Rock—honest, raw, emotional, and urgent—told a powerful story of being overlooked, underserved, and unheard.
When the film concluded, the silence lingered briefly before the auditorium erupted in a round of heartfelt applause. It was more than appreciation—it was recognition. Recognition of the truth spoken, the experiences shared, and the resilience demonstrated by the young people behind the film.
About the Documentary
“Where’s Our Support?” is not just a film—it’s a movement. It was co-created by six young people from Alum Rock, who over two years worked closely with our team to explore the gaps in youth services, the lack of safe spaces, and the emotional toll of growing up in areas facing social and economic challenges.
The documentary was managed by Amaan, our dedicated Project Manager, who supported the young participants every step of the way—from shaping the narrative to capturing footage, editing, and organising community screenings.
This long-term project was made possible thanks to funding from BBC Children in Need and the #iwill Foundation, and through strategic support from Gowling WLG and Koala TV, who provided professional guidance and media expertise to elevate the film to a broadcast-quality production.
A Voice That Needs to Be Heard
What makes “Where’s Our Support?” especially powerful is the authenticity of its message. These are not scripted actors or paid performers—they are real young people who live the story they are telling. They speak from lived experience, representing thousands more across East Birmingham and beyond who feel ignored or misrepresented.
The documentary highlights issues such as:
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The closure and underfunding of youth centres
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Mental health challenges among young people
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Crime and safety concerns in their communities
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The feeling of being excluded from decisions that affect their lives
But it also shows hope, resilience, and leadership. These young people don’t just critique the system—they offer ideas, solutions, and a desire to be part of the change. Their words are not just emotional appeals; they are a call to action.
The Importance of the B:CAN Network
The launch of the B:CAN Network represents a new chapter for grassroots community support in Birmingham. With 22 anchor organisations now collaborating across the city, the network aims to deliver coordinated, place-based support that empowers residents, promotes wellbeing, and strengthens community infrastructure.
Seeing youth voice featured so prominently at the B:CAN launch is a significant and positive step forward. It reflects a shared commitment among organisations and stakeholders to listen to young people, involve them in decision-making, and invest in their futures.
We are proud that Our Community Foundation was not only present at this landmark event, but that our young people led one of its most impactful moments.
What’s Next?
The journey of “Where’s Our Support?” doesn’t end here. We’re planning to host further screenings in community venues, schools, and policy forums to continue raising awareness and amplifying youth voices.
Our hope is that this film sparks conversations, policy shifts, and resource investment into youth services in places like Alum Rock and other underserved communities across the UK.
We also aim to inspire other youth groups to tell their stories through digital media, art, and advocacy—because when young people speak, we must all listen.
🎬 Watch the Documentary Now
We invite you to watch the full documentary and hear directly from the young voices of Birmingham:
Please share it widely, discuss it with your networks, and help us keep this vital conversation going.
Acknowledgements
This project was made possible thanks to the generosity and belief of our partners and supporters:
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BBC Children in Need
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#iwill Foundation
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Gowling WLG
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Koala TV
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The dedicated team at Our Community Foundation
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And most importantly, the brilliant young people who led the way
Together, we can build a future where youth voice isn’t just heard—but acted on.
#YouthVoice #WhereOurSupport #BCAN #AlumRock #ChildrenInNeed #iwill #KoalaTV #GowlingWLG #OurCommunityFoundation #YouthEmpowerment #DigitalActivism #Birmingham