Amma Asante, David Morrissey, Kit de Waal and Marverine Cole lead the new programme, to support wellbeing among screen-sector workers.

The Film and TV Charity is launching its inaugural ambassadors programme, headed by Amma Asante, David Morrissey, Kit de Waal and Marverine Cole.

The four official ambassadors will raise the profile of the programme, designed to strengthen the organisation’s mission to improve wellbeing for behind-the-scenes workers in film, TV, and cinema.

Last year was the organisation’s centenary, marking 100 years of support for screen-sector workers. This year, the Charity is due to launch its latest Looking Glass survey report, the next phase of the Reel Impact programme for mid-senior level Black and Global Majority workers and organisations and ongoing work to develop industry-wide mental health standards.

The Ambassadors’ support:

• Filmmaker Amma Asante said: “When it comes to looking after wellbeing, I’m aware of the best and worst of set life. For this reason, and because I know the positive impact the Charity can have with its support and through its work to change the industry’s culture, I’m incredibly proud to become one of its first official ambassadors. Change takes time, and I’m looking forward to joining the Charity’s team on their journey to a more supportive and inclusive environment for all.”

• Actor David Morrissey: “When I heard about the support the Charity offers people who experience bullying, harassment, or discrimination in our industry – something that’s inexcusably still happening far too often – I felt compelled to lend my voice to their work. I’m passionate about the industry becoming more inclusive, and we have to create an environment that enables that. The Film and TV Charity is vital to the change we need to see and I’m excited to do whatever I can to help them help others.”

• Screenwriter Kit de Waal: “As an ambassador I want to champion the Charity’s work to support everyone behind the camera, especially people working outside of London. The financial support the Charity provides to make sure people from working class backgrounds can stay in the industry when they face hardship is so desperately needed. By working together, we can ensure that talent from all backgrounds feels valued and supported.”

• Broadcast journalist Marverine Cole: “I’ve recognised and witnessed the impact of poor mental health in the industry for over a decade, especially the detrimental way it can impact talent from underrepresented groups. The Film and TV Charity’s commitment to providing essential support is something I deeply believe in. I look forward to working with the team to address the issues facing our industry, as well as continuing to advocate for better support for the freelance community.”

The Film and TV Charity runs a free, 24/7 Film and TV Support Line, access to counselling, the Bullying Advice Service, legal advice, financial guidance, and more. The charity has also developed the Whole Picture Toolkit for mentally healthy productions, a free resource that supports mental health on productions of any size and in any genre.

All images via The Film and TV Charity