Can’t Beat It Alone (1985) is a documentary produced by Amber’s Current Affairs Unit, focusing on the collaborative efforts of various grassroots organisations in North East England during the mid-1980s. The film brings together voices from groups such as the Easington Miners’ Support Group, Whittle Women’s Support Group, Tyneside CND groups, the Save Druridge Bay Campaign, Billingham Against Nuclear Dumping, and the Greenham Common Women. It examines their collective strategies in addressing industrial decline, environmental concerns, and the broader socio-political challenges of the era.

The documentary emerged from Amber’s engagement with coalfield communities, anti-nuclear activists, and peace movement groups, particularly in the context of the 1984–85 Miners’ Strike. It explores how these diverse groups organised to counter threats such as the proposed PWR nuclear power station at Druridge Bay and NIREX’s plan to dispose of waste in the anhydrite mine under Billingham. The film also delves into the suspicion that the British nuclear industry’s sustenance was driven by political motives to reduce the influence of mineworkers and secure plutonium for weapons.

Produced as part of the ACTT Workshop Declaration, Can’t Beat It Alone was later broadcast on Channel 4’s Eleventh Hour series. The film exemplifies Amber’s commitment to social realism and grassroots activism, providing a nuanced portrayal of working-class life and the importance of community solidarity.

Pre-booking not required.