Film aims to raise awareness of domestic abuse

Titled The Hidden Scars, it is being produced by Dudley-based charity The Saleem Foundation.

It was set up by Shaz Saleem in memory of his grandfather and tireless charity campaigner Mohammed Saleem, who dedicated his life to helping those less fortunate.

Mr Saleem said: "The Saleem Foundation is committed to its cause of raising awareness for serious issues.

"Last year we raised awareness for liver cancer, breast cancer, homelessness, mental health and dementia.

"This year we have dedicated the first three months to raise awareness for domestic abuse."

The film features actors from First Act Workshops including Hattie Leavitt-Dunn, Nicoletta Barrett, Alexander Westwood and Jamie Wilson alongside Tividale Community Primary School pupils Thomas Andrew Griffiths,aged 11, and Mara Ubhi,10.

The script was written by Mr Saleem who said he wanted to highlight issues including the impact of domestic abuse on children.

"This was a challenging project and I have been working on a script for two years. It's a very sensitive topic and I didn't want to use violence in the film.

"I'm very proud of the script and to actually see it come to life was overwhelming. I'm blessed to work with so many talented people and look forward to the release," he added.

The film will be released at a domestic abuse awareness event at the Cornbow Centre Halesowen on February 22 in partnership with Halesowen BID.

The charity has previously produced a film aiming to raise awareness of mental health, which was shortlisted for the 2019 Charity Film awards.

The Silent Pain gives an insight on how easily any form of mental health related symptoms can go unnoticed and helps to raise awareness of what people should do