Introducing the new strategy by Alison Wyman (CEO)

The ABF has a long and rich history within the acting and stage management community. I have been struck by material from within our archives revealing how innovative and pioneering the charity has been right from its early days, when over 12,000 people were being helped in 1884. Additionally, I have been heartened that there have been women in leadership positions throughout the ABF’s history when that was not commonplace in the sector. Myself and the Board are keen to build on that bold and pioneering spirit as we look to the future.

Society has changed significantly since the ABF was founded in 1882, at a time when there was no welfare state and the industry looked very different to today. Like any organisation, we must keep adapting if we are to remain relevant and have the greatest possible impact that we can.

We are delighted to roll out the new Acting for Impact strategy. This has been developed from drawing on research within the industry, indicating that financial difficulties and mental health challenges are two particular areas of need. We have also listened to what you our members have told us: that the priorities you feel are important include raising awareness, helping more people, broadening the range of support and developing fundraising.

Over the next few years we will be focusing on reaching more people and developing activities that will have the greatest impact. Grant making will remain a key part of what we do. We will also introduce proactive initiatives such as webinars / workshops, community events and digital resources with a focus on prevention. We want the ABF to be a place of community and belonging, and for us to reach and engage people who more fully represent the diversity of the industry.

To enable this, we will develop our systems and processes to make it easier and quicker to support people, reach people in the most effective ways, and develop a fundraising capability. It is an exciting time and I am incredibly grateful to the Board and staff team for their engagement in this process, and to the charity’s leadership throughout its history which has enabled us to get to this point.

I look forward to continuing this journey together in the months and years ahead as we strive to provide the most impactful support that we can, which I know we all care passionately about.

By Alison Wyman (CEO)

“The acting and stage-management community needs support as never before. We live in tough, anxious times, with theatres closing, companies folding overnight and tours being abruptly cancelled. The trustees and the team at the ABF have worked hard to produce a plan which enables many more actors and stage managers to get much-needed help. We dearly thank you, the members, for your continuing support.”

-Simon Callow (Trustee)