Smoking is the largest preventable cause of death in England. It is estimated that each year 340,000 children under 16 try smoking. And 200,000 children and young people start to smoke regularly. The younger the age of uptake for smoking, the greater the harm is likely to be. This includes the risk of developing lung cancer if the child becomes a regular smoker. Smoking also increases major inequalities in illness and mortality across areas of high social and economic deprivation.

The Cut Films national short film competition encourages young people to explore and talk to each other about the risks involved in smoking. Research indicates that children are highly influenced by their friends. By using a medium like film to deliver messages by the young people to show to other young people, we're creating a direct conversation with this vulnerable age group. By educating teachers through our resources and campaign they can then support young people to make the films.