FILM CLUB AT CHICHESTER CINEMA. We are asking for funding for Chichester Cinema's Film Club which provides a safe and inclusive social environment for young adults from 18-25 to enjoy the entertainment of film. We currently meet once a month screening the most iconic movies of all time, with film chat and pizza prior to the film. As we know, Covid had, and still has, a deep impact on the younger generation. The severe restrictions that were placed upon us are still having an impact on their lives; for many around this age range, three of their formative years were marred by isolation, anxiety, instability, and a lack of socialising, this has now become the norm. Young adults are less willing to enjoy going out either to the pub, the cinema, or the usual pastimes of that age. They utilise streaming services to watch film usually on their own, which only amplifies the isolation. Money also plays a large part in this issue, most social activities are now cost prohibitive for many due to the cost of living crisis. Cinemas and film are a means of escapism, relaxation, and entertainment; they are also a form of education covering many genres and subjects. They are a catalyst for debate, and film culture is a form of art in itself. It is a location where groups can meet and share a common interest and social experience. In the short time we have been running the club, we have seen friendships being forged and confidence grow especially for those who struggle with social anxiety, or are neurodiverse. We want to grow this new young cinematic community, and as it evolves, create a young programmers group where they can choose their own films, learn new skills such as marketing, programming, projection, and inspire their creativity, communication, and confidence. All of these skills they will be able to take, apply and utilise in their future careers. The funding will help subsidise the ticket price which we have lowered to an affordable cost of £3.50 per person and enable us to break even for these screenings. A BIT ABOUT US. Our non-for-profit independent cinema has been an enduring presence within Chichester for over 40 years; we are a wonderful provider of non-mainstream world cinema, but the cinema is also a platform for our charitable work. OUR CHARITABLE AIMS: *Improving well-being and health and building stronger local community links by supporting vulnerable people such as the elderly, disabled and those unable to access mainstream cinemas through our community support and study programmes. Working with local charities who support adults with learning difficulties with day-care and supported living, and for children with additional needs and disabilities. Also, working with a Women's Centre, and newly arrived asylum seeking families. *Supporting young people in education, through a curriculum outreach and education programme *Supporting and providing social entertainment for young adults in an inclusive and safe environment through a monthly Film Club screening. * We are a community hub and for many of our elderly patrons a lifeline, especially those who live alone, are isolated due to illness or disability and suffer from a social disconnect within our community. OUR MISSION; *To programme and deliver the widest range of film and performance events from around the world in a welcoming and inclusive way, that brings us together in a community cinema, which encourages debate and helps us to see and understand the world through different eyes. In doing so, we broaden the appeal and appreciation of independent cinema which is central to cultural life in Chichester and beyond.

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Our small but mighty not-for-profit cinema has been in Chichester for 40 years. Within our charitable works we screen films for local charities such as the 'Apuldram Centre' who provide adult social care for those with learning disabilities, through day centre and live in support. 'The Chichester Boy's Club' who provide a safe and welcoming environment for young people and adults to enjoy and participate in interesting and fun activities & 'PACSO; Parent & Carers Support Organisation' who support children with disabilities, their families and carers in Chichester and the Arun districts. Along with screenings for local care homes for the elderly. We also work with, 'My Sister's House' who offer support for women who have experienced domestic abuse, and 'Sanctuary in Chichester' who provide support for refugees through education, and training.
Film offers many positivity, fun, escapism and respite for so many, along with the community hub our cinema has become over the years we have been screening films. Many of our patrons, along with our 120 volunteers are elderly or disabled; some who suffer from loneliness and a disconnect from society due to this, especially after the pandemic. Our bespoke cinema has helped to reconnect this sector of the Chichester community, and has become a place to socialise, to talk about the love of film over a cup of tea or glass of wine, to forge friendships; and for those who visit on their own, which can be daunting for many, to be welcomed and made to feel comfortable. We have been described as a lifeline. We pride ourselves on ensuring that film is for all, and should be enjoyed in a safe and inclusive environment, something which mainstream cinemas just do not provide. Our education team who all volunteer their time and extensive expertise hold film talks at the cinema which support young people in education. This is achieved through a curriculum outreach programme aligning with their subject and texts that they are studying. Texts such as 'Macbeth', 'Jekyll and Hyde', 'Wuthering Heights', 'Romeo and Juliet' and historical events. The talks help the students engage with the subject on a higher level by offering a new learning experience and method by the art of film. This has helped many students especially students with neurodiversity understand complex texts by viewing it through film, parallel to offering a fun and enjoyable experience.