Charity Awareness Video Case Study: Epilepsy Action “In the Dark” Campaign

Epilepsy Action partnered with Rune Films to create a powerful awareness campaign for Purple Day, designed to highlight the lived experience of epilepsy and drive engagement across digital platforms.

The campaign needed to stop audiences mid-scroll, communicate an emotional message quickly and encourage sharing.

The Approach

strategy

Creative

The campaign focused on a simple but powerful concept designed to communicate instantly.

Rather than overcomplicating the message, the goal was to create something visually striking, memorable and easy to understand.

A light-based visual metaphor was used to represent the sudden disruption epilepsy can cause in everyday life.

This was supported by:

  • audio design inspired by real interviews with people living with epilepsy

  • minimal, cinematic visuals

  • a strong focus on pacing and emotional tone

The creative approach balanced impact with sensitivity.

Production

The campaign was produced as a live-action shoot with a strong emphasis on sound design and editing.

Deliverables included:

  • multiple video lengths (30s and 60s)

  • multiple formats (16:9, 1:1, 9:16)

  • versions with and without subtitles

  • A/B tested calls to action

In total, 24 campaign assets were created for cross-platform distribution.

The Outcome

The campaign delivered strong engagement and retention:

  • 120,000+ views in the first month

  • 99.7% retention (30-second version)

  • 85% retention (60-second version)

Beyond metrics, the campaign:

  • sparked meaningful audience conversations

  • encouraged sharing across social platforms

  • increased awareness of epilepsy and its impact

The Challenge

Epilepsy Action needed a campaign that could cut through a crowded digital environment while remaining sensitive and authentic.

The content needed to:

  • raise awareness of epilepsy and its real-world impact

  • connect emotionally with a wide audience

  • perform across social media platforms

  • deliver a clear message within seconds

Unlike traditional campaigns, this required immediate attention and strong emotional resonance.

Why This Worked

  1. Strong visual metaphor
    The concept was instantly recognisable and easy to understand.

  2. Real human stories
    Authenticity created emotional connection and trust.

  3. Designed for social-first viewing
    The content was built to capture attention quickly.

  4. Multi-asset delivery
    Different formats allowed the campaign to perform across platforms.

  • Campaign concept development

  • Live-action video production

  • Interview filming

  • Sound design and post-production

  • Multi-platform delivery

  • A/B testing

  • 24 campaign assets

Project Scope

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes an effective charity campaign video?

An effective charity campaign video combines emotional storytelling with a clear, simple message that can be understood quickly and shared easily.


How long should a campaign video be?

Shorter formats (15–60 seconds) typically perform best on social media, especially when designed to capture attention quickly.


How long should a campaign video be?

Yes. Video is one of the most effective formats for raising awareness, driving engagement and encouraging social sharing.


Can video increase engagement for awareness campaigns?

Can video increase engagement for awareness campaigns?


Why is storytelling important in charity video campaigns?

Why is storytelling important in charity video campaigns?