Description
The first community-based Health Campaign took place in Pilton, Edinburgh, in 1954. This film looks at the build-up of the Campaign, and the way a strong local community was able to play an important part in eradicating the scourge of tuberculosis from the community. As well as hearing the voices of local people – both those who suffered from the disease and the local activists – this film uses a variety of recently discovered archive material, ranging from the Fifties Galas to a young Stanley Baxter in a promotional film for the Health Campaign.
Shows the powerful role that people can play in taking action to improve their conditions. However, it also raises important questions for anyone concerned with community development, by examining the consistent failure in housing policy both in Edinburgh and Scotland, which made a health problem into a health disaster.
Made in 1985 this film reflects the cultural attitudes of the country and language of the time it was made. The issues raised are timeless. The film quality may not be to modern standards.
