A funding scheme designed to open doors for working-class documentary makers across the North of England has launched its fourth year, with applications now open until 17th August.
The Northern Doc Fund, run by not-for-profit Doc North, is the only UK scheme focused specifically on supporting early-career, working-class documentary film makers in the region. This year’s theme is “Recovery”.
What’s on offer
Successful applicants can receive:
- A £3,000 bursary
- Six months of mentorship
- The chance to pitch at Bolton Film Festival (a BIFA and BAFTA qualifying event) in front of a live audience and industry judges
Five film makers will be shortlisted to pitch, with two overall winners going on to receive post-production support from Sticks & Glass, a delegate pass to Sheffield DocFest 2027, therapeutic advice from Film in Mind, and a premiere screening of their finished film at the Leigh Film Factory.
Why it matters
Doc North was set up by Natasha Hawthornthwaite and Scott Bradley after three successful years running the fund under Northern Heart Films. As a not-for-profit, its sole focus is supporting working-class film makers and telling northern stories.
CEO Natasha Hawthornthwaite said the fund exists because opportunity in the industry is still far from equal: with only around 8% of people working in film coming from working-class backgrounds, she said schemes like this create both visibility and structured support for regional talent.
Bolton Film Festival director Adrian Barber said the pitch event is about more than prize money, describing it as an investment in people that gives emerging film makers mentoring, industry guidance and practical support to build sustainable careers.
The scheme has also had backing from Westminster. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy has publicly supported Doc North’s mission, welcoming its commitment to widening inclusion in the industry.
Alumni of the fund have gone on to work in film and television, with past participants crediting the scheme for putting money, influence and expertise directly into the hands of film makers based across the North, rather than concentrated in London.
Who funds it
The Northern Doc Fund is supported by Wigan Council, Iambic Dream Films and Creative Lancashire, along with in-kind support from Sticks & Glass, Sheffield DocFest, Bolton Film Festival, Olympic Studios, Leigh Film Factory and Film in Mind.
How to apply
Applications close on 17th August. Full details and how to apply are available at docnorth.org.uk.
