A chance to see these rarely screened documentary films, originally transmitted by itv in 1983.

The Local Cinema Network (led by WHALE Arts) is delighted to present this trio of rarely seen documentary films directed by Peter Carr and produced by itv – following organisers and members of SHADA (Support Help and Advice on Drug Addiction) in Pilton, Muirhouse and Leith in 1983. The films also feature contributions from Jimmy Boyle who helped connect the filmmakers to the group, and by SHADA’s founding members Heather Black (pictured) and Morag McLean. In the year that the film Trainspotting turns 30, these films are a powerful reminder of the real lived experience of heroin addiction in Edinburgh by its residents.

The screening will be introduced by members of the Safe Consumption Facility Edinburgh campaign, who will also be contributing to the post-screening discussion.

Tickets:

We will be asking for a suggested donation of £5 per ticket on the day of the screening. Please reserve your place via Eventbrite via the link if you'd like to attend.

Access info:

The three episodes of Heroin (1983) will be screened in sequence with short breaks in between, with a discussion on contemporary campaigns and support for people struggling with addiction to close. Complimentary tea, coffee and biscuits will be available throughout the event. The films will be screened with descriptive subtitles in English for accessibility. The Norton Park Conference Centre is fully wheelchair accessible. Doors 1.30pm, first film starts at 2pm.

Heroin (1983) was first screened as part of North Edinburgh Arts’ building reopening in April 2025, and then at Duncan Place Community Hub as part of the Local Resistance season in November of the same year.

All profits from the screening will go to supporting further community cinema screenings across Edinburgh.

This screening is supported by Film Hub Scotland, part of the BFI’s Film Audience Network, awarding funding on behalf of Screen Scotland and the BFI National Lottery.

Thanks to itv for their kind permission in screening these copyrighted films.

Local Cinema is supported by the City of Edinburgh Council and Edinburgh Film Guild. For more information on the rest of the Local Cinema 26/27 programme, please visit: https://www.whalearts.co.uk/local-cinema/

Description supplied by the event organiser.