We’re so pleased to share with you our award-winning FairChecks short film, highlighting the experiences of those facing the life-long barrier of a criminal record.
Currently, the England and Wales criminal records disclosure system is one of the most punitive in the world. Records of old or minor convictions continue to come up years down the line, long after a person has completed their sentence.
1 in 4 people of working age in the UK have a criminal record. Millions of people are facing this unnecessarily harsh system and being held back from fulfilling their potential and contributing to society. We were delighted to have the opportunity to create this film with the incredibly talented director Jordan Pitt and his brilliant team, in conjunction with the Media Trust and Criminal Justice Alliance.
This film is a call to action: to rethink outdated policies, to spark conversations, and to build a future where everyone has the opportunity to move on from their past.
In March 2025, we were thrilled to receive first place in our category at the Smiley Charity Film Awards 2025 – all due to the hard work of those listed below! A massive thank you to everyone involved, and to the Smiley Charity Film Awards for having us.
Please watch the film and share it with your networks – and please tag us, you can find us on all social media platforms @FairChecks.
FairChecks is a movement led by charities Unlock and Transform Justice.
Credits:
One Umbrella Productions
Director: Jordan Pitt
Cinematographer: Lee Daley
Producers: Geoffrey O’Williams & Kashif Boothe
Writer: Ishod Bullen
Executive Producer: Tolu Stedford
Director of Photography: Lee Daley
Composers: Peter Matthews & Lyndrey Holder
2nd AC: Kaia Bashir
Production Assistant: Tamiah Burke
Camera Assistant: Madison Tavares & Max Cagigao
Make-up Artist: J’Leigh O’Connor
BTS: Madison Tavares, Max Cagigao & Zaynah Javed
FairChecks Ambassadors & Lived Experience Consultants: Jazz Singh, Peter and William
Cast:
Chizzy Akudolu
Charles Venn
Jaz Singh Deol
Kellie Shirley
Sammy Attalah
Julianna Kurokawa
Verona Rose
Harry Saks
Locations:
LAMDA (London Academy of Music & Dramatic Art)
Bernie Grants Art Centre
Blue Jays Cafe
South Norwood Cocktail Bar
KOTG (Kids On The Green)
We would like to thank the Media Trust and the Criminal Justice Alliance, and everyone who dedicated their time, efforts and resources to creating this film.
