About A strand

The Strand is one of London’s most iconic and historic streets. Running through the heart of the city, it connects Trafalgar Square to Temple Bar, marking the boundary between the City of Westminster and the City of London. The name “Strand” comes from the Old English word for “shore,” as the street once ran alongside the north bank of the River Thames before the embankment was built.

Over the centuries, the Strand has been home to many notable buildings and institutions. Some of the most famous landmarks include Somerset House and the Royal Courts Of Justice.

In 2016, mental health was a significant public health concern in London, reflecting wider national and global trends. A combination of socioeconomic factors, housing challenges, and the fast-paced nature of city life contributed to a growing focus on mental health issues within the capital.

The Strand showcased a big contribution to this in a number of ways.

• Housing and Homelessness
• Drug Addiction
• Crime
• Alcohol abuse
• Social Isolation
• Stress in the Workplace
• Depression and Anxiety

2016 saw continued efforts to raise awareness about mental health, with campaigns encouraging Londoners to seek help early and promoting mental health as an integral part of overall well-being.

Mental health issues related to job stress, long working hours, and the pressures of city life were becoming more apparent. High housing costs, overcrowding, and the increasing issue of homelessness were strongly linked to mental health issues.

Homeless individuals faced extreme levels of mental illness, with many struggling with substance abuse and severe mental health conditions. Homelessness, particularly among migrants from Central and Eastern Europe, was a visible issue on the Strand. Many migrants, particularly those from countries like Romania, Poland, Bulgaria and Brazil faced challenges in securing stable housing and employment. Without sufficient support networks, some ended up sleeping rough in areas like the Strand.

In 2016, homelessness among war veterans in London was a significant issue ,many of these veterans faced a range of challenges that contributed to their homelessness, including mental health issues, unemployment, and difficulty transitioning to civilian life after military service.

About a Strand was a two year documentary dedicated to showing all these issues faced by people in challenging situations, from high pressure jobs to the homeless, all spending time on an iconic area within London.