CJA and Media Trust showcase films calling for changes to the criminal justice system

Media Trust and the Criminal Justice Alliance (CJA) have unveiled a series of powerful new short films highlighting some of the most pressing challenges facing the UK’s criminal justice system.

Supported by the Crucible Foundation, the project showcases the transformative work of the Criminal Justice Alliance and ten of its frontline member charities working to create a fairer, more effective justice system. Member charities include: Centre for Applied Autism Research UoB, Give a Book, Institute for Crime & Justice Policy Research (ICPR), RIFT Social Enterprise, SAFE!, Transform Drug Policy Foundation, Transform Justice, Upcycle, and Why Me?.

Matching life-changing charities with extraordinary talent

For the past decade, Media Trust Films has been matching experienced filmmakers looking to give back with small charities in need of professionally made short films to showcase their work and impact.

For this project, Media Trust identified a team of talented directors from its network, including a BAFTA-nominee, several National Film and Television School alumni, and individuals with lived experience of the criminal justice system.

The films bring to life diverse themes ranging from the impact on families when a parent goes to prison to the unique challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals in court. They not only shed light on systemic challenges but serve as a call to action for transformative change.

CJA Director Annette So said:

“These films are an important step in changing the narrative around criminal justice, ensuring that lived experience is at the heart of storytelling. By amplifying the voices of CJA’s members and those directly impacted by the system, we hope that the films will contribute to challenging misconceptions, spark meaningful conversations, and inspire action to co-create a system that prioritises support, fairness, and dignity for all.”

BAFTA-nominated director Jordan Pitt said:

“I wanted to be able to use my gift as a filmmaker to contribute to the push for a change within the criminal record disclosure system, as it’s a topic that affects more of us than we may initially realise.”

An evening of film to drive change

Hosted by Warner Bros. Discovery, one of Media Trust’s longest-standing industry partners, the films premiered on Tuesday 18 November. The event brought together policymakers, advocates, filmmakers, and media figures, including Chizzy Akudolu, Chucky Venn, and Ralph Ineson.

The screening featured a panel discussion with charity leaders, filmmakers, and advocates, including JABBS Foundation CEO and CJA Trustee Tom McNeil and journalist Danny Shaw. The panellists offered personal insights into the stories behind the films and highlighted the urgent need for systemic change.

Danny Shaw commented:

“The films screened not only highlight the urgent need for reform in the criminal justice system but also show the real, human impact of policies and practices that often go unnoticed. These powerful stories remind us of the importance of seeing the people behind the headlines, and the need for a system that is fair and effective.”

The lives behind the headlines

Particularly with the recent spotlight on the SDS40 early release scheme aimed at easing overcrowding and supporting offender reintegration, there are growing calls for a reformed justice system rooted in rehabilitation and structured community support. Against this backdrop, CJA’s film The Cycle, directed by Georgie Yukiko Donovan, captures how breaking cycles within the justice system could transform countless lives.

Other films in the series, made in collaboration with lived-experience consultants, share similarly impactful stories, shedding light on the hidden layers of issues and complexities within the criminal justice system.

Su-Mei Thompson, CEO of Media Trust, said:

“This project is a brilliant showcase of what we do at Media Trust—matching good skills with good causes to empower charities and advance representation for systemic change.

“We hope these films will inspire viewers to support a justice system that recognises the humanity of every individual and promotes rehabilitation over retribution. My thanks go to our volunteer filmmakers, the Criminal Justice Alliance, its member charities, and the Crucible Foundation for making this possible.”

Some of the films are already available to watch, including FairChecks, The Cycle, and What would you say?. These impactful stories are designed to spark conversations and inspire action towards a more compassionate and effective criminal justice system. The remaining films will be released over the coming months, with more information available at the CJA website.