Blackburn’s Steve Pemberton produces documentary The Little Things

Paul Woodward’s documentary, The Little Things, was inspired by the support he and his family received from Derian House Children’s Hospice in Chorley, during the short life of his son, Kalel.

Although not yet released to the public, the film has already received its first five-star review from UK Film Review.

Paul Woodward with son Kalel (Image: Derian House)

Critic Patrick Foley describes it as “the most moving documentary I have seen in years”, as well as “a powerful success” and “inspiring, raw, honest and insightful”.

The film has also had support from multi-award-winning actor and writer Steve Pemberton, best known for co-creating, co-writing and acting in The League of Gentlemen, who joined the crew as executive producer last year.

A private sneak-peek screening was held for hospice staff and film funders on Wednesday, August 21, in Derian House’s very own on-site cinema room.

The film has attracted backing from industry heavyweights including actor and writer Steve Pemberton.

Benidorm star Steve said: “I think it’s incredible that Paul, a parent who has fully experienced what a hospice does, is looking to break down barriers around what hospice care is about.

The Little Things crew at Derian House (Image: Derian House)

“I grew up in Chorley, very close to the site where Derian House now stands and I am very proud to support everything it does. To be able to support ‘The Little Things’ is an honour, and I’m sure the film will warm the hearts of families nationally who have experienced hospice care for themselves.”

Steve’s son, Lucas Pemberton, 23, provided the film’s powerful cinematic score – his debut.

Paul, a film producer and actor from Skelmersdale, drew inspiration from the support his family received from Derian House during Kalel’s life.

"We wanted to create a film that not only informs and enlightens but also touches the hearts of all who watch it,” said Paul, who runs North West film production company Old Swan Films.

“By highlighting the exceptional care provided at Derian House, we hope to inspire empathy and understanding, and to celebrate the resilience of the human spirit, while also opening up important conversations about end-of-life care and bereavement with our children.”

The film is currently being entered into film festivals in the UK, and across the globe – including the Antenna Documentary Film Festival in Australia, the Big Sky Documentary Film Festival in the USA, and the Sundance Film Festival in Utah.

Film editor, Max O'Toole, and director Thomas Elliott Griffiths (Image: Derian House)

Directed by the award-winning Thomas Elliott Griffiths, the film offers an exclusive behind the scenes look into hospice care, highlighting the moving stories and connections between families, staff, and volunteers.

Karen Edwards, chief executive at Derian House, said: “Having the opportunity to view ‘The Little Things’ before its public release was a deeply moving experience for all of us at Derian House. This documentary captures the essence of what we do and the profound impact we have on families during their most challenging times.

“We are so grateful to Paul and his team for their generosity in giving up their time and using their talent to help us show the world what a wonderful place Derian House really is. The documentary captures the love, compassion, and support that we strive to provide for our children and families.”

Based in Chorley, Derian House cares for more than 400 babies, children, young people and their families from across the North West, helping them to make the most of every moment.

Care is free for families but it costs £6million to run services at Derian House and so the charity relies heavily on the generosity of its supporters.