Channel 4 launches youth docs initiative

Children's charity the NSPCC and Channel 4's 4Talent are launching a new initiative to look for young documentary writers and filmmakers.

As part of 'Raw Cuts: ID', the broadcaster is inviting teenagers to send in stories that define 13-18 year-olds feelings towards identity.

The writers of the best 16 pieces will be given the opportunity to film a week in their life, with the best entrants going on to attend Channel 4 workshops to help them develop their ideas. The final selection of four three-minute films will broadcast in a primetime slot on Channel 4 later this year.

NSPCC director of communications, John Grounds, said: "It is a great chance for teenagers to show people what they think, get their voices heard and share their opinions. It can be so easy to assume that we know what teenagers want and how they feel. Raw Cuts gives them the chance to challenge opinion and speak out about issues that are important to them."

Written applications of 350-500 must be submitted to Channel 4 by Monday May 14. More information can be found at www.channel4.com/rawcuts