'Virtually There' and 'Cleanskin' are groundbreaking virtual reality films addressing the critical issues of knife crime, child sexual exploitation (CSE) and violence against women and girls (VAWG). As someone personally affected by the violence these films address, writer and director Leon Oldstrong set out to use his craft to make a difference. "Whilst I have never been stabbed nor experienced the events addressed in Cleanskin, the issues highlighted in the films affected people close to me. My younger brother was stabbed seven times in 2017, and fortunately, he survived." said Oldstrong, "This life-changing experience motivated me to create Virtually There and subsequently Cleanskin, two immersive virtual reality films tackling the urgent issues of knife crime and violence against women and girls (VAWG). Cleanskin was written with the input of someone close to me for whom those events were a reality."
These immersive films, already licensed by Sussex Police, are being used to engage schools, youth services, and other organisations across Sussex to prevent youth violence and exploitation. By providing access to these films at no cost to local organisations, Sussex Police are helping to foster empathy, change behaviours, and raise awareness of these important social issues.
By taking a similar approach, the Met or the Mayor of London could provide these films and the necessary VR equipment to schools, youth services, and other groups across London—making a real difference in the lives of young people.
