LGBT Foundation celebrates Pride Month with a film that shines a light on the challenges that many in the LGBT community have faced during the coronavirus lockdown.

The advert, titled “Locked Down and Out,” was inspired by several heart-breaking stories of young LGBT people who experienced many though times while being stuck at home with intolerant parents. Directed by Lucrecia Taormina and produced by FRIEND, the film tells the story of a trans girl (played by Miya Ocego) who isn’t allowed to express her true gender identity because of her mother (played by Cate Debenham). The youngster does a makeup tutorial and is very happy to share her know-how, but when her mother enters the room, things take a dramatic turn. She then closes the laptop, throws the makeup products in a bucket and removes her make-up, revealing the sad face of a boy. Photos in the room also show a boy as a child.

The charity highlights that LGBT abuse has more than doubled since lockdown, with 22 extra people calling its dedicated helpline every day at a point of crisis. Viewers are encouraged to donate to help continue being there for LGBT people like Zoe right now.

LGBT Foundation have also reported a 350% increase in visits to their domestic violence webpage and a 25% surge in calls regarding suicidal thoughts.