Lights, camera, connect: students create social media reels tackling the health issues that matter most to young people
Southampton Solent University students have produced a series of short, engaging social media reels encouraging young people across Hampshire to take ownership of their health.
Created for young people, by young people, the videos were developed in partnership with Hampshire and Isle of Wight Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust. Students from the BA (Hons) Television Production and BA (Hons) Post‑Production for Film and TV courses explored a range of topics including vaping, mental health and sexual health.
Using authentic storytelling and peer‑to‑peer messaging, the students created content designed to resonate with young audiences. Many drew on their own lived experiences to share powerful stories, raise awareness and challenge stigma around key health issues.
The student‑led project focused on producing bite‑sized, relatable content optimised for platforms such as Instagram, TikTok and YouTube Shorts, reflecting how young people increasingly consume information online. Each reel is visually engaging, deliberately short and designed to encourage sharing and conversation.
The videos form part of the Trust’s wider prevention and early intervention work, supporting healthier choices and wellbeing in local communities.
Eltjo de Vries, a student involved in the project, said:
“Working alongside the NHS has been a valuable experience to discuss ideas and respond to a live brief to create videos targeted at a younger audience. Through this collaboration, we have all developed our professional practice, become more confident in the work we produce and will look back on this experience with fond memories.”
Selena Brash, Public Health Nurse and Vaping Lead at Hampshire and Isle of Wight Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, said:
“Working closely with young people in communities, we hear how much they value clear and honest information on platforms they already use. These talented students have delivered content that is professional, relevant and credible to their peers. We’re excited to use these videos as conversation starters that encourage positive, confident health decisions and provide guidance and support.”
This year’s programme also includes a partnership with Solent Mind, helping to ensure mental health messaging is safe, supportive and stigma‑free. Together, the partners aim to increase understanding, encourage open conversations and help young people feel confident about accessing advice and support when they need it.
Kate O’Driscoll, Senior Lecturer in TV Production at Southampton Solent University, said:
“This project gives students invaluable real‑world experience while creating content with genuine social impact. Producing short‑form content for social media challenges students to think creatively and responsibly about audience and message. The standard of work produced is extremely high.”
Lesley Stevens, Director of Quality and Engagement at Hampshire and Isle of Wight Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, added:
“Young people are telling us they want clear, honest and relevant information delivered in ways that make sense to them. By working in partnership with Solent University and Solent Mind, we can co‑create engaging content that feels authentic, reduces stigma and helps young people feel more confident about their health, wellbeing and where to find support.”
The reels will be shared across the Trust’s social media channels throughout 2026, supported by local media activity and wider health awareness campaigns.