Below is a short film that my brother, Luke Hawkins appeared in for Blue Peter’s Childline Appeal in 2005/6.

It is based on a true story of a boy called Aiden. It demonstrates the abuse that his father inflicted upon him after his mother died and when his father turned to alcohol.

I think it’s an excellent short film demonstrating what some children go through behind closed doors in their family home. Its aim was to show children how they can call ‘Childline’ for help, support and advice if they are going through a similar situation. There is help at the end of the telephoneline and it can and has saved many children from further abuse and violence.

 

However, I also believe that this would be a powerful and meaningful short film to show in AA meetings around the country. Many fathers and mothers are recovering alcoholics trying to stay off alcohol and get better for themselves and their families and children. It may not work in all situations, but showing this film may touch a nerve with some AA members as they may relate to the situation and the emotions that run throughout the film. If an AA sufferer takes their anger out on their children, by watching ths film, it could force them to evaluate their own family situation and understand the amount of fear and pain that their child is carrying.

Of course I’m biased, but I think that Luke was excellent at playing Aidan and portraying the various emotions that he felt in the situation. You could sense the fear that he had of his father, but also the anger and the pain that he felt. For a 9 minute film it is rather powerful in showing how anyone could find themselves not coping with a current situation. They may turn to alcohol and then take this anger out on their children without true intent. There is help out there for both the child and the parents in these situations.

For more information on gaining this help call:

CHILDLINE: 0800 1111 (Calls are free and confidential)

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS – CLICK HERE OR CALL: 0845 769 7555