Masterclass: Leo Anna Thomas and Matt Longley on freelancers' mental health in film production

Leo Anna Thomas and Matt Longley explain the practical steps production companies can take to care for the mental health of their freelance film crews. Leo Anna, who has lost two friends in the industry to suicide, sets out the role of a mental health and wellbeing facilitator, that she is about to pilot. This video is of particular interest to heads of department and crew who would like to know more about #mentalhealthinfilm or how to become a wellbeing facilitator. About Leo Anna Thomas Leo Anna Thomas started work in the industry 16 years ago within the art department. She became a mental health advocate eight years ago, and is a fully certified mental health first aider and i-act manager. She is developing a new role of wellbeing facilitator, working closely with the crew and cast on a production, to the benefit of their mental health. About Matt Longley Matt Longley started work in the film industry over 10 years ago as a supplier and went to form 6ft From The Spotlight to offer mental health support and training to crew in the creative industries. He is an accredited i-act instructor and can teach positive mental health and wellbeing for managers. About this event This event was recorded on 13 May 2020. It was supported by the ScreenSkills Television Skills Fund which invests in training for the freelance television workforce thanks to contributions from the BBC, Channel 4 and Channel 5. It is part of a ScreenSkills programme managed by the Indie Training Fund to support freelancers to upskill and stay connected, helping keep the industry resilient during the coronavirus lockdown.