Screenwriter Frank Cottrell-Boyce voices SVP film project

Acclaimed Merseyside screenwriter and novelist Frank Cottrell-Boyce has added his voice to a new series of films for the St Vincent de Paul Society (SVP).

The writer, who penned movies Welcome to Sarajevo (1997), Millions (2004) and The Railway Man (2013), and who co-wrote Oscar nominated Netflix movie The Two Popes (2019), is an SVP member and patron of the SVP’s Rise to the Challenge campaign, which aims to raise the funds required to realise the Society’s objectives over the next four years. Frank is personally involved in supporting those in most need in the Merseyside region.

The films, which have been in development since Autumn 2020, introduce new and potential members to the SVP and inspire its current members. Partly filmed at the magnificent St George’s Cathedral in Southwark, south London, before the third national lockdown, the films will be available to members via the SVP’s website and via the SVP’s YouTube channel.

Each film features a different aspect of the charity: its foundation and structure, spirituality, and the process of seeking those who need help. Other topics covered in the films, which have been co-produced by film company Nutmeg, include the wider Vincentian family, social justice, starting an SVP Conference, and finally a section capturing members’ own experiences and advice.

SVP President Helen O’Shea says: “It’s an exciting project. We have almost 200 years of history and these inspiring films show how and why the SVP has developed into the amazing organisation it is today.

“The films also provide useful information for anyone who wants to join the SVP or start a new group in their parish. During these challenging times, our motto ‘Turning Concern into Action’ strikes a chord with so many people who want to help, but don’t know how. These films help to outline the ‘how’.”

“As an SVP member, I felt it important to share what I have known for many years – the SVP makes a difference. From dropping off a food parcel to chatting about someone’s problems, we use the little things to effect a big change. These films reveal the essence of the SVP’s great work.” - Frank Cottrell-Boyce

For more information or to donate to the SVP’s Rise to the Challenge campaign, go to www.svp.org.uk/rise, @SVPEnglandWales (#SVPRiseChallenge) or telephone 020 7703 3030.