This is a short film was created by our MADE in HESTON WEST young film crew. The film was written by Abbie McFerran and Juhi Kumra and filmed at Cranford Community College on Sunday 26th March 2017. The short film highlights self-esteem and body image issues young people face.

The 'It's OK not to be OK' campaign is led by our Youth Action Team.

It’s OK not to be OK. As a society we have created these outrageous ideals of how a person should look and dress instead of looking at what matters and what makes them who they are. And, no matter what society says those ideals don’t matter because despite what we have been brought up to believe we are all beautiful and unique and that includes you, me and everyone around us. So if you ever feel you are not good enough remember that you are and talk to someone because at one point in our life we have all felt like there is something wrong with us when in reality there isn’t. Don’t be afraid to share your feelings because there is many just like you and if you’re not OK then the world is not OK.

It’s all right to feel nervous or scared when going to talk to someone but trust me it could make all the difference and there are many people out there who would be willing to listen to you whether that be friends, family or teachers there is always someone you can turn to for help even if you feel like you’re alone.

It doesn’t matter how small or big the problem is because there will always be someone to help and a problem is still a problem despite the size of it so all I can say to you is be happy with who you are because you are perfect and beautiful in every way and if you ever doubt that remember there is always someone you can turn to and there people out there who feel the same way you do because despite what we may look like on the outside we could be the complete opposite on the inside.

Also if you ever feel that a friend or relative or anyone doesn’t seem themselves or something doesn’t feel right you could be the one to say: “Hey are you OK?” because that lets them know they are not alone and it could change everything for them because you never know what might be going on in someone’s head. Be the one who helps them through a dark time to get them to a bright and happy place and remember It’s OK not to be OK.

Check out Serena Lola's amazing VLOG documenting our recent Big Local trip to Parliament!