THE CTBF launches LEGACY APPEAL led by National Treasure STEPHEN FRY

Industry Icons Dame Helen Mirren and Lord Michael Grade also backing Charity Campaign

The Cinema and Television Benevolent Fund (CTBF), the UK charity for people working behind the scenes in cinema, film and commercial television, has today announced the launch of The CTBF Legacy Appeal. Backed by major figures across the industry, including Stephen Fry, Dame Helen Mirren and Lord Michael Grade, the campaign asks individuals to consider leaving a donation to the charity in their Will.

Donations will play an invaluable role in safeguarding The CTBF’s future work, contributing to the £3 million of support granted by the charity to over 1000 individuals affected by accidents, illness, bereavement, redundancy, or general hardship each and every year. With its welfare support, and programmes such as The National Care Plan, The CTBF Children’s Fund, and its flagship talent development scheme – The John Brabourne Awards, the CTBF works tirelessly to provide support when needed most. 

Legacies that already exist within The CTBF include a substantial part of Producers Peter Rogers’ and Betty Box’s estate, including all future royalties generated from the “Carry On” back catalogue. In addition, many industry veterans that have made their livelihoods from behind the camera have also left gifts to the CTBF in their wills - a way of providing for the next generation.

Barry Jenkins, OBE, President of The CTBF, commented "Our industry can be an often precarious place, and so many find the obstacles of ill-health, sudden bereavement, and financial hardship in their path. Yet as we all know, it is equally an industry of unmatched creative comradery, community, and steadfast support. I would invite our friends from across the spheres of television, film and cinema to join me in leaving a gift to the CTBF, and help us in our work supporting those who need us most.”

Helping launch the appeal, Stephen Fry said “As a supporter of The CTBF, the charity for UK Cinema, Television and Film, I am delighted to be part of their Legacy appeal. If like me you are glad to have had a career in this wonderful industry, please help The CTBF be there for our colleagues by leaving a gift in your Will.”

Lord Michael Grade added “Throughout my life I have been surrounded by talented crafts people in the amazing world of Film and TV – they are an inspiration. However, I know from personal experience that these dedicated and skilled people, and their families, can sometimes face real financial hardship and adversity. By leaving a gift in your will to our trade charity, The CTBF, you can be there for our colleagues when they need it most.”

CTBF friend, Dame Helen Mirren says “Will you join me in supporting The CTBF by leaving a gift in your will? Even a gift of 1% of your estate can help make a difference to our colleagues in need.”

Those considering leaving a gift to the charity in their Will can find further information and advice at the CTBF.

About the CTBF
The Cinema and Television Benevolent Fund (CTBF) is the charity for people working behind the scenes in the UK cinema, commercial television and film industries. They provide care and financial support to industry employees and their families who suffer from hardship due to bereavement, illness, redundancy or other misfortunes.