Sussex Cancer Fund Enters National Film Awards

A Sussex film shines a light on local cancer support as Sussex Cancer Fund enters national awards, Joanna Godden from the charity explains more

A moving story, filmed here in Sussex, is gaining national attention after Sussex Cancer Fund entered its short film Not Just a Story into the Smiley Charity Film Awards 2026. The charity is now inviting local residents to show their support by watching and voting for the film. 

At the centre of Not Just a Story is Jos, a Sussex woman who chose to share her experience of cancer and the support she received within her own community. 

Her words offer a calm and thoughtful insight into what it feels like to navigate treatment – while finding comfort from people, places and services close to home. Although it is a personal account, it reflects the feelings of many across Sussex who have said that small improvements in care, surroundings and support can make a meaningful difference during an uncertain time. 

The idea for the film grew from Sussex Cancer Fund’s commitment to raising awareness of local needs. The charity works alongside SussexHospitals to fund equipment, create more welcoming patient environments, provide wellbeing services and support research taking place in the county. These projects are shaped by what patients and clinical teams say would improve day-to-day experience – from quieter spaces to specialist tools that help deliver care. 

Jos chose to take part because she wanted others to know that these forms of support exist and that community involvement can have real impact. Her story highlights why local fundraising matters and why the charity continues to invest in projects that make the patient journey more manageable. 

“Not Just a Story is an honest and heartfelt piece of filmmaking,” said Trustee Lou Scott. “Jos’s experience speaks to many people across Sussex. Entering the Smiley Charity Film Awards gives us an opportunity to show why local support matters and how charitable funding can enhance the experience of patients and their families. We would love people to watch the film, vote and share it with others.” 

The Smiley Charity Film Awards, now in its ninth year, is the largest platform celebrating creative storytelling from charities and community groups across the UK. The event has welcomed presenters such as Lisa Snowdon and Tom Allen and attracts filmmakers, supporters and organisations from the creative and humanitarian sectors. 

The Awards exist to give charities a wider voice, helping them reach new audiences and draw attention to the human experiences behind their work. As Lorna Milliken, Managing Director at Smiley Movement, explains, “These films do not just raise awareness. They move us, connect us and remind us of the good that exists in the world.” 

How to Support the Film 

Readers of Sussex Living can help Sussex Cancer Fund progress in the competition by voting for Not Just a Story at www.smileycharityfilmawards.com/films/not-just-a-story 

Voting closes on 30 January. To learn more about the charity, volunteer or explore ways to support, visit: www.sussexcancerfund.co.uk or email: info@sussexcancerfund.co.uk