CenterFrame is proud to shine a spotlight on the incredible work of two of our talented members, writer Jo Clayton and producer Natalie Lauren, as they embark on an important fundraising journey for their short film, Unauthorised Absence.

From Personal Pain to Public Action

Unauthorised Absence is not just a screenplay; it is a battle cry born from experience. Jo Clayton is a writer and storyteller with a prestigious background, having worked with Shakespeare's Globe and Great Ormond Street Hospital. However, it is her role as a mother navigating the SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) system for the last eight years that sparked this project.

“The system is broken beyond anything I could imagine... I’ve been through burnout. I’ve been through despair. I’ve been through things that no mum or dad should ever have to go through.” — Jo Clayton

Jo has teamed up with producer Natalie Lauren, a filmmaker whose background makes her the perfect partner for this story. Natalie spent 10 years working in the education system, supporting students who didn't fit into mainstream schooling. She has seen firsthand the pressure families face when their children’s needs aren't met.

With four of her previous short films currently winning awards on the festival circuit, Natalie is confident in the power of this new project: “I have absolutely no doubt that Unauthorised Absence is gonna blow all of them out of the park,” she says.

A "Mr. Bates" Moment for Education

The team has a bold ambition for what this film can achieve. Jo describes their goal clearly: “We're trying to do for the attendance laws what Mr. Bates vs The Post Office did for Post Office PR... to expose the human cost of a broken system.”.

The film addresses a startling statistic: 1 in 5 children cannot attend school right now. As Jo notes, these aren't "bad kids"—they are children waiting for assessments and EHCPs (Education, Health and Care Plans) whose needs are being ignored.

The Story: Art Imitating Life

The film follows Anna, a mother fighting for support while facing the threat of prosecution and fines for her daughter Thea’s absence. The script explores the devastating "catch-22" where schools view non-attendance as a parental failing, adding financial penalties and legal threats to families already in crisis.

It is a story of a mother caught between a rigid system focused on data and the desperate need to protect her neurodivergent daughter from a sensory environment she cannot survive.

Join the Movement: The Kickstarter Campaign

Jo and Natalie are calling on the community to help move this story from the page to the screen. They understand that times are tough—especially for SEND families. Jo adds a touching note to parents in similar situations: “If you don't have the money... I see you, I feel you, don't give us your money, but please do share.”.

Those who can pledge, your support will help spark a conversation that is long overdue.

Good luck Jo and Natalie!

NATHAN HAINES

Co-Founder & Filmmaker | CenterFrame Team

Check his profile on CenterFrame