Developing in the Dark
A portrait exhibition illuminating the real people whose lives have been transformed by helplines. Born on Helplines Awareness Day 2026 — and growing ever since.
Discover the exhibition
Illuminating Stories of Support
Developing in the Dark began as a bold new photography initiative created in collaboration with Rachel Brewster-Wright of Little Vintage Photography, launched on Helplines Awareness Day 2026.
The exhibition presents a powerful portrait series — each image capturing someone whose life has been touched, impacted or changed by a helpline. Alongside every portrait is a personal reflection: honest, human, and deeply moving.
The title is intentional. A helpline call is often made in a person's darkest moment — unseen, unspoken about, carried alone. This exhibition brings those moments into the light. Just as a photograph emerges slowly from darkness in the developing room, these stories reveal themselves with care, patience, and quiet power.
What started as a single event at The Shed in Liverpool has grown into something much bigger. We're taking Developing in the Dark across the UK — and we need your help to get there.
I found taking part in the project extremely validating and rewarding. I was keen to use this opportunity as a platform to express my gratitude to those who have supported me through challenging times, as well as hopefully encourage others to seek support If they need it.
Faces Behind the Calls
Each portrait tells a story of courage, connection, and transformation. Browse a selection below, or view the full gallery to experience every portrait in full.
Help Us Grow This Exhibition
Developing in the Dark relies on the generosity of organisations and individuals who believe in the power of helplines. Your support will help us create new portraits, travel to new venues, and reach more people across the UK.
Thankyou to Red Brick Market for being the lead sponsor of the first stage of our project.
Up to £250
- A heartfelt thank-you on our exhibition webpage
- Recognition as an official exhibition supporter
Over £250
- Recognition on our exhibition webpage and socials
- Logo on website and exhibition materials
- Named in all partner communications
£1,000+
- Prominent recognition on exhibition webpage and socials
- Logo on website and exhibition materials
- Branding and opportunity to speak at every event
All donations are gratefully received and every supporter is officially thanked. To discuss sponsorship or make a contribution, please contact Gemma Khairi, Director of Operations at info@helplines.org.
Bring Developing in the Dark to Your Area
We began in Liverpool — but these stories belong everywhere. We are actively seeking venues across the UK to host the Developing in the Dark travelling exhibition and help us take these portraits to new communities.
Whether you run a gallery, a community space, a theatre foyer, a library, or a corporate office, we'd love to hear from you. Hosting the exhibition is a powerful way to raise awareness of the vital role helplines play — and to start meaningful conversations in your community.
If you have a suitable space and would like to find out more, please get in touch. We'll work with you to make it happen
What We're Looking For
We can be flexible. If you have a space and a willingness to host, we want to hear from you. As a guide, ideal venues typically offer:
1. Wall space to display 10–20 large-format framed portraits
2. Good footfall or an existing community audience
3. Accessible to the public, with opening hours to suit
4. A space that can accommodate an evening viewing event
5. Located anywhere in the UK