Portsmouth's Unlikely Filmakers: Film Crew 4u!

Behind the Lens: Billy’s Mission to Change Lives

Ever wondered who’s holding the boom mic, setting the lights, or making movie magic happen right here in Portsmouth? Film Crew 4U shines a light on the talented individuals behind the cameras, the unsung heroes of film, TV, and creative media.

Whether it’s an indie short in Southsea, a documentary filmed in Old Portsmouth, or a commercial shoot down at the Historic Dockyard, we’re here to celebrate the local crew who make it all happen. From gaffers to grips, editors to runners, this blog is your all-access pass to Portsmouth’s vibrant film scene.

We share interviews, job tips, location features, event spotlights, and all things crew culture. If you’re in the industry, dreaming of joining it or just love seeing how the magic gets made, you’re in the right place.

We sat down with Flim Crew 4U founder Billy Stevenson

From Rehab to Reel: What inspired Film Crew 4u?

Billy moved to Portsmouth for alcohol rehabilitation in 2020. There, a filmmaking course ignited a revelation:

“I realised I wanted to become a filmmaker, but more than that, I wanted to help people like me.” When friends began hiring him for promo work, Billy saw a bigger opportunity. He structured Film Crew 4u as a Community Interest Company (CIC), ensuring profits directly serve those most in need.

“Socially Inclusive Filmmaking” – What does that look like?

For Billy, inclusion in action:

“It means creating a space where anyone, no matter their background or circumstances, can get involved, feel valued, and tell their story. After retaking his GCSE English and earning an NVQ Level 3 in Education & Training, he built pathways for others to find their voice. Participants don’t just hold cameras; they reclaim their narrative through storytelling.

How do you choose which communities to work with?

It started with addiction recovery groups, but demand grew organically. Today, Film Crew 4u collaborates with SEN schools, veterans, and mental health organizations. The proof?

“Kids proudly show us films they made in their free time. That’s when you know it’s working.”

What’s your biggest challenge?

“Funding is difficult to secure, and the paperwork takes up a huge amount of time.“

With just 3 successful bids out of around 50, resources are tight. Yet Billy’s resolve is unshaken:

“The money we earn from commercial projects, which we take on to stay afloat, goes straight into supporting our community work when funding isn’t available.

A moment that confirmed your impact?

“To see how excited and engaged the SEN students were was amazing; they came alive through the filmmaking process.”

And while Young Creatives Portsmouth isn’t a SEN school, the young people we work with there are full of ideas and eager to learn. It shows how much creativity can be unlocked when you give someone the right tools and a bit of trust.

How does your lean team operate?

Billy is the sole full-timer. His partner and a friend who co-founded the business support the work around their day jobs. What keeps it all together?

“Everyone brings their expertise to the table behind the scenes.”

What’s next?

Bigger funding bids to support addiction recovery programs, and a passion project:

“We’re working on a project called The City & Me, where people in recovery explore Portsmouth’s history through film. It’s about using creativity and education to reconnect with the city and tell personal, powerful stories.”

They’re also building their social media to help share these voices more widely.

The Final Cut

Film Crew 4u doesn’t just document stories, it changes endings. Billy’s journey from rehab to community catalyst proves that creativity can heal wounds and build futures. In an industry obsessed with glamour, this Portsmouth crew finds magic where it matters most: in the hands of someone holding a camera for the first time, discovering they have something to say.

Ready to support?

Visit their website