As part of our ongoing collaboration, Sheffield DocFest and ArtWorks Together are delighted to present our "Something I Want You To Know..." Mini-Doc - call for entries!
This call for entries invites people with learning disabilities and/or autism who are over 18 from across the UK to create original short-form documentaries, shaped around the theme "Something I Want You to Know...".
Shortlisted films will be presented at a special showcase screening during Sheffield DocFest on 10th June 2026, where the winner will be announced.
Guidelines
There are no creative rules for this call for entries. We want to see bold, original pieces, shaped around the theme "Something I Want You to Know...".
Practical guidelines are as follows:
- This call is only open to filmmakers, producers, and directors with a learning disability and/or autism
- Films should be no longer than 3 minutes
- Films must be created safely and legally, with all necessary copyright clearances in place
- Films should be your own work
- Production value doesn’t matter - use whatever equipment you have access to
- Filmmakers should be based in the UK
- Filmmakers should be aged 18 and over
- Filmmakers should have written consent from any participant if their film portrays a lived experience. Any sensitive and identifiable information should not be included, and instead should be anonymised
- We would like films to be captioned, but please don't let this be a barrier. Support is available for those who are shortlisted
- The winning film may be asked to take part in a UK tour
Key dates
Applications open: 12 February 2026
In connection with this call for entries, we are running a dedicated Filmmaking Workshop. This is taking place on 14 March 2026 (details to follow soon)
Deadline for entries: 5 May 2026, at 23:59
The screening at Sheffield DocFest will take place on the 10th of June, 2026 (Tickets will be available closer to the date)
Submit Your Film
Submit your film by following the link below. Please note that you will need to make an account in order to submit a film.
Mini-Doc Filmmaking Workshop
Do you like watching films? Do you have an interesting story to tell? Ever thought about making your own film?
On Saturday 14th March at Showroom 5, Showroom Cinema, Sheffield, we're running a hands-on workshop for people with learning disabilities and/or autism, in which you will learn how to tell stories in visual and interesting ways, through the art of documentary film.
It's the perfect opportunity to learn practical filmmaking skills as you work towards making your own 3-minute mini-doc.
Book now
Any questions?
For all questions, please email minidoc@sheffdocfest.com
If you have any access adjustments regarding your entry (for example, if you need the form in a different format), please write to: maria.stoneman@sheffdocfest.com
