When the pandemic hit in March 2020, it highlighted the inequalities that remain long after the mines closed in Scotland’s coalfields. It also demonstrated how resilient coalfield communities are in finding solutions to their own challenges, quickly self-organising to support residents who are vulnerable or in need; from sharing the responsibility of food provision to collectively writing songs of activism.

Films of Action is a community filmmaking project founded upon the belief that Scotland’s former coalmining areas – in which 10 per cent of the population live – have many inspiring stories to tell. Filmmakers Anne Milne and Shona Thomson worked with the Coalfields Regeneration Trust and Regional Screen Scotland to share big screen stories of lockdown told in people’s own voices. Come along to watch a selection and meet the real on-screen stars, followed by an open discussion on the action needed to support thriving communities.