There has been a long tradition of film and Film Societies in Scotland. The Scottish Federation of Film Societies was set up in the autumn of 1934, and led to the formation of the Scottish Film Council (now Scottish Screen). The oldest continually running film society in the world, the Edinburgh Film Guild, is based in the region, as well as the longest continually running film festival, the Edinburgh International Film Festival, founded in 1947 (started by members of the Film Guild).

In 1969, the BFFS was created by the merger of the English and Scottish federations, and the Scottish Group was formed. In the late 1990s, this was renamed to BFFS Scotland. BFFS Scotland represents a diverse set of societies, encompassing rural venues many miles from the nearest cinema to inner-city societies. In all cases, the emphasis is on increasing the access to film.

BFFS Scotland provides support to new and existing societies in the form of representation and advocacy, viewing sessions, technical and programming assistance, equipment loan, challenge funds, block booking schemes, networking events, workshops and publications. We work in close partnership with Scottish Screen and Hi-Arts to encourage and foster collaboration between societies and local arts organisations.

We are always keen to welcome new members in the region, and can provide advice on venues, funding, equipment and organising a committee for prospective societies - just get in touch with us!