What charities can learn from hit tv-show Heartstopper

If you’re a Netflix fan, you’ve probably noticed the buzz around Heartstopper and its latest season. The show has captivated audiences with its often honest and heartfelt portrayal of LGBTQ+ life. But beyond its feel-good storytelling, Heartstopper also offers valuable insights for charities looking to authentically connect with their audiences.

Much has been written about Heartstopper since its debut (like this excellent piece), but we’re here to explore what lessons it holds for charity communications. As part of a new resource series on what charities can learn from pop culture, we’re kicking off with what lessons this hit TV show can offer charities looking to engage meaningfully and with impact.

Lesson one: Balanced narratives can help build trust

One reason Heartstopper connects so deeply is its nuanced portrayal of diversity within the LGBTQ+ community. From Elle’s experience of transitioning as a trans woman to Isaac’s exploration of aromantic asexuality, the show works hard to balance representation whilst demonstrating that each experience is unique to the person. After all, one voice cannot speak for all.

Yet, what truly makes Heartstopper resonate is how these individual stories come together to celebrate queer joy and community, which sets it apart from stories that focus solely on the trauma or struggle of its LGBTQ+ characters. The show strikes a balance by highlighting both uplifting and joyful moments, showcasing not only the challenges but also the depth and vibrancy of LGBTQ+ lives.

For charities, this approach is an important reminder: where in your messaging can you consider moving beyond trauma? Sharing stories of joy and resilience can resonate just as deeply as narratives of adversity. When people see a balanced story, one that includes both challenges, positive change and growth, it can help build greater trust in your cause.

Tip: Consider how your charity can safely and sensitively involve people with lived experience to tell authentic stories. Not everyone may wish to be in the spotlight, and that’s okay. Our resource on representing beneficiaries without using their image provides practical guidance on balancing storytelling with the respect of privacy.

Lesson two: Prioritise inclusive and intersectional storytelling 

Heartstopper excels in weaving inclusive, intersectional, and accessible narratives without feeling forced or tokenistic. The evolving relationship between Nick and Charlie touches on coming out, peer pressure, and family acceptance, all while feeling natural and relatable.

Crucially, the show’s authenticity is rooted in collaboration with LGBTQ+ cast and crew, fostering a safe, affirming environment behind the scenes. This highlights the importance of embedding inclusivity throughout your organisation, not just in public-facing communications. Heartstopper‘s authenticity isn’t just on-screen, it’s behind the scenes too.

This approach reminds us of Searching, a recent film by Media Trust Films in partnership with Spectra. The short film gives an overview of Spectra’s trans services, and by working with a trans filmmaker and trans actors, the project captured a level of authenticity that resonated deeply with its audience.

Both Heartstopper and Searching show how vital it is for stories about under-represented communities to have lived experience at their core. Prioritising inclusive and intersectional storytelling is a great way to minimise tokenism, but it must be done genuinely. For charities, this means ensuring diverse perspectives are reflected at every stage of your work, right from the start of campaign planning to the storytellers you involve.

Tip: Need help crafting intersectional stories? Check out our Intersectional Storytellers Toolkit for practical steps on engaging authentically with inclusive stories.

Lesson three: Creativity drives engagement 

Originally a graphic novel, Heartstopper uses visuals like illustrations and animations to elevate storytelling. These creative touches highlight emotions and moments that words alone can’t capture. Fans of the show engage with it creatively, sharing fan art, user-generated content, and even free printable activities like colouring pages. This interaction allows fans to feel connected to the show in a personal way, giving them a piece of Heartstopper they can make their own.

Charities can take inspiration from this creative fan engagement by using visual storytelling tools such as Canva. These tools can help bring your campaigns to life, whether through eye-catching infographics, videos, or interactive content.

By encouraging supporters to create and share their own content, such as personal stories, testimonials, or even creative resources like colouring pages, you empower supporters to engage with your cause in a meaningful way, turning them into passionate ambassadors for your work.

Tip: Explore our resource on unmissable visual storytelling, created as part of our Communicating Climate programme. You’ll find practical tips to craft visuals that captivate audiences, regardless of whether you’re an environmental charity or not.

Looking for more comms and engagement tips?

Head to our Resource Hub and support for charities pages to see more tips, programmes and training opportunities for charities looking to amplify their voice and impact!

Or sign up for one of our upcoming communications courses, where you can access affordable training to learn practical storytelling tips.