Most people are used to seeing films with classifications for age suitability that are normally given by a national body called the British Board of Film Classification (BBFC).
But using a rarely-required power Westmorland and Furness Council’s Licensing Sub-Committee has classified six independent films ahead of their screening at the Alhambra Cinema in Penrith. The decision was made during a committee meeting held in Kendal.
The films are primarily environmental and educational documentaries—were not rated by the BBFC, as the usually the body responsible for assigning age ratings in the UK. As such, the responsibility fell to the council, using powers granted under the Licensing Act 2003 so that the films could be screened publicly in Penrith.
The films and the classifications awarded by the council are:
"Impossible is Just a Feeling" – rated U (Universal)
"Detect and Protect" – rated PG
"Fast Fashion" – rated 12A
"Echo of the Sky" – rated PG
"On the Edge: Saving the Iberian Lynx" – rated PG
"Seasonal Secrets" – rated PG
Council officers assessed the content of each film using BBFC guidelines before presenting recommendations to the committee. The classifications are aimed at protecting children from potentially unsuitable material while supporting access to cultural and educational programming.
Council officers said that although it's not the standard route for classification, local authorities are empowered to step in when necessary. “This process ensures community standards are maintained, particularly when independent or international films are involved that haven’t gone through the BBFC process”.
The council said the committee decision aligns with its licensing policy and legal duty to safeguard younger viewers, particularly in local venues where community-oriented screenings often feature films outside mainstream distribution channels.
The some of the short films given classifications will be shown in Penrith at the Alhambra Cinema as part of a Green Screen Youth Take-Over evening on Wednesday the 11th June, 2025 @ 7:00 pm - 9:30 pm
As part of The Great Big Green Week celebrations, the Green Screen Youth Take-Over is hosting the special evening of film screenings and panel discussions under the theme “Cumbria Swap for Good”.
The films will be followed by a panel discussion from Gail Gravett (Cumbria Clothing Collective), Amanda Slattery (Maya Maya, Kendal), Kay Groundwater (Identity, Barrow) and Finn Windhill (Restore Cumbria), to cover topics raised in the films and Cumbria Swap for Good.
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