Social enterprise Miss Macaroon boosts engagement with film screening

A BIRMINGHAM-based social enterprise which reinvests its profits to help young people into employment and training has established a new film club to help encourage stronger bonds in its community.

Following the riots in the summer of 2011, cuts in youth services and some of the highest youth unemployment rates in the country, Rosie Ginday, founder of Miss Macaroon, thought it imperative for Birmingham’s marginalised youth to have a greater stake in society.

The film club, Social Screen, aims to give young people stronger bonds with their local communities and experience the positive effects of involvement with society.

Ms Ginday, who trained under Michelin-starred chef Glynn Purnell, said: “Social Screen aims to bring together different parts of local communities to improve community cohesion, reduce isolation and empower communities.”

The club is staging a themed outdoor screening of ‘Far From Heaven’ at a secret location in Birmingham on September 15.  Filmgoers attending will be encouraged to dress up in 1950’s attire and ladies will be able to have their hair and make-up done by vintage make-up artists.

The location of the venue is a secret and the audience will only be told where to go once they have purchased a ticket.

Entry to the screening will be available from 6.30pm for those taking afternoon teas, while entry for the film only will commence at 8pm with a local swing band providing entertainment. The afternoon tea hampers are being provided by Yummy Brummies, a network of food social enterprises which help marginalised people.

Profits made from the sale of tickets and hampers will be re-invested in the social aims of training and employment for young care leavers, young offenders and ex-offenders.

One of the participants said the ‘Macaroons that Make a Difference’ programme had helped to improve their social skills, confidence and experience.

“I am now more able to set goals, achieve the goals I have set, am more organised and can plan for the future,” they said.