Local kids enjoy free community film festival

A local community film club for young children and families recently held its second annual free film festival at the Grade II listed mansion in Beckenham Place Park.

Bromley Family Film Club was launched back in September 2015 to create a safe and relaxed space for families and young people to enjoy a cinema experience together.

The club, which is run by local volunteers, was founded by Saskia van Roomen who works at the London Film School and is also an ambassador for the Film Education Charity ‘Into Film’.

Now in its second year, the Free Family Film Festival, which this year took place on Sunday, September 2, is a one-day celebration of cinema in the community.

With the support of a variety of sponsors including Lewisham Council, Homezone, Beckenham Place Park Mansion and local backers via Crowdfunder, the club managed to put together an exciting festival that incorporated animation workshops, storytelling, arts and crafts activities, a giant zoetrope, food, music and a fantastic line-up of films for the whole family.

Speaking to News in Beckenham, Saskia said: “Due to the additional needs of their children, families often find it difficult to attend a regular cinema and these outings can become stressful as a result. Our film club gives families a chance to meet with friends and enjoy an alternative cinematic experience that rivals any regular cinema visit.

“There are not many regular cultural activities available for children and young people with additional needs in the larger Bromley area, and we are trying to address this need. Our over-arching aim is to introduce children and young people to non-mainstream films in a fun and accepting environment, to create a learning experience for children of all abilities and to promote social inclusion.”