Catalyst Support Documentary (2025)

Project Overview

The Catalyst Support 25-Year Documentary was created to celebrate a quarter-century of service, community impact, and human connection. As an organisation dedicated to supporting people affected by drug and alcohol use, mental health challenges, and social isolation, Catalyst has spent 25 years transforming lives across Surrey.

The aim of this documentary was to capture the essence of who they are – not just the services they provide, but the heart, dedication, and collective strength behind their mission. Through interviews, lived experiences, and behind-the-scenes insight, the film serves as a tribute to the people who built Catalyst and those who continue to carry its vision forward.

Cinematography & Techniques

The documentary was filmed using a cinematic, story-led approach to honour the depth of Catalyst’s work. Each interview was framed with intention – using natural light, depth, and composition to create an intimate and authentic atmosphere.

Alongside the interviews, contextual footage captured the day-to-day environments where Catalyst’s impact is felt: community hubs, offices, outreach spaces, and moments of connection between staff, clients, and partners.

The goal was to bring warmth and humanity to every frame, making the documentary visually engaging while staying grounded in the real-world nature of their work.

Visual Storytelling

The narrative emerged through conversations with the people who embody Catalyst:

• frontline staff and support workers

• counsellors and service leads

• the CEO and leadership team

• board members and trustees

• partners and advocates

• and the lived-experience contributors whose stories bring the organisation’s work into focus

The lived-experience interviews were especially powerful. They offered a raw, personal insight into recovery, resilience, and the life-changing support Catalyst provides. Their voices anchored the documentary in truth – reminding viewers that behind every statistic is a person whose life has been touched by the organisation’s work.

Through these perspectives, the documentary explores Catalyst’s roots, its evolution, its challenges, and its unwavering commitment to community wellbeing. Themes of compassion, dignity, growth, and connection run throughout the film.

Collaborative Spirit

This project was created in close partnership with the Catalyst Support team. From shaping the narrative to capturing real interactions, the filmmaking process was grounded in trust and shared purpose.

Working with Catalyst was a deeply meaningful experience – their openness, energy, and heartfelt dedication made the documentary not only impactful, but genuinely inspiring to create.

The Final Result

The finished documentary is a cinematic celebration of Catalyst Support’s 25-year journey. It honours the people, the communities, and the mission that have shaped the organisation into what it is today.

A blend of history, heartfelt testimony, and forward-looking vision, the film stands as a tribute to an organisation that has spent 25 years supporting healing, courage, and connection across Surrey.