BBC Factual’s new documentary dives into the young anti-abortion movement in the UK.
- Directed by Poppy Jay, the film is a product of Firecrest Films, airing on BBC One and iPlayer.
- Poppy Jay comments on social media’s polarizing role in the abortion debate.
- Daisy Scalchi, BBC’s Head of Religion and Ethics, praises Jay’s fresh perspective on the subject.
- Jack Bootle, Head of Commissioning, highlights the significance of young people’s role in this issue.
BBC Factual has commissioned a unique documentary, titled Young, British and Anti-Abortion (working title), directed by the Bafta-nominated Poppy Jay. The programme offers a deep dive into the young activists at the forefront of the anti-abortion campaigns in the United Kingdom. It seeks to illuminate the motivations and methods of these young individuals who aim to curb access to abortion. As the director herself notes, “Immersing myself in the UK Gen-Z anti-abortion movement was an eye-opening experience.”
Produced by the Glasgow-based Firecrest Films, this 60-minute documentary is set to deliver rare insights into a deeply contentious issue. The film is scheduled for broadcast on BBC One and will be available on the iPlayer platform, making it accessible to a wide audience keen on exploring the multifaceted debate surrounding abortion. Jay’s documentary is characterised by candid exploration, as she states, “There was very little common ground and I think the abortion debate, with the way social media is being used as a weapon to polarise views, will continue to be one of the most divisive issues of not just our time but beyond.”
BBC’s Head of Religion and Ethics, Daisy Scalchi, commends Jay for her bravery and authenticity in tackling the topic. She asserts that Jay’s style—marked by charm, candour, and perseverance—adds a novel layer to the discourse, spotlighting the vigorous involvement of young individuals in the abortion debate. Scalchi values the documentary for providing a platform that challenges viewers to reconsider their own perspectives.
The film’s compelling narrative is endorsed by Jack Bootle, BBC’s Head of Commissioning for Specialist Factual, who underscores the project’s relevance. He comments on the critical role that young people play in this divisive issue, further pointing out the importance of bringing such contentious and urgent matters to the forefront of public discussion. By highlighting the perspectives and energies of the UK’s youth, the documentary not only informs but also instigates broader conversations on this divisive topic.
The production, spearheaded by executive producers Nicole Kleeman and Vari Innes, aligns with the BBC’s commitment to probing significant societal issues through factual programming. Commissioning Editor Daisy Scalchi and directors have collaborated to ensure the documentary’s message is impactful and thought-provoking, encouraging the audience to engage critically with the content.
The documentary exemplifies the BBC’s dedication to exploring divisive topics through the lens of youthful activism, offering viewers a nuanced perspective on the abortion debate.
