Successor announced for the Foundation Chair as Samantha Wainstein Completes 4 year term

Following a successful four-year term as Chair of The Mark Milsome Foundation (MMF), Samantha Wainstain is stepping down and as of 16^th February 2026, the post will be taken up by Abbi Collins, a respected and seasoned Stunt Co-ordinator, Fight Arranger and Horse Master. With more than 39 years of industry experience, Abbi was instrumental in forming The British Stunt Register.  She is a passionate advocate for safety on all levels, and in maintaining the highest possible standards of best practice and work ethics in the film and television industry.  Abbi steps up to this new role after being an MMF Trustee since 2024.   She is particularly interested in addressing the cultural issue of excessively long working hours in film and TV.

During her tenure as Chair, Samantha Wainstein has been committed, determined and relentless in her pursuit of better, safer working conditions for British film and TV crews.    Highlights include advocating for the Government’s Freelance Champion role, working with government and industry to shape the terms of reference, and job description, as well as raising awareness amongst countless crew, by rolling out the MMF Health and Safety Passport to major studios and broadcasters, with almost 15,000 taking the course during her term.

MMF Founder and Mark Milsome’s widow Andra commented:

“I’m thrilled that Abbi has accepted to become the Foundation’s new Chair. I’m excited to not only continue building on all Kirk and Samantha’s important contributions thus far, but to bring a new energy and vision, moving the Foundation into more areas, expanding awareness in the Health & Safety arena, solidifying our relationships with the wider industry, as well as moving into neoteric territories. In addition to Abbi joining us, we will soon be announcing new Trustees and Advisory Council members”.

Commenting on her vision for MMF’s future, Abbi Collins said:
“I feel honoured and excited to accept the position of Chair of this innovative and progressive foundation. Thank you for the trust and confidence you have placed in me. It means a great deal and I am deeply committed to supporting our mission and confident that together we can build on MMF’s immense achievements so far. I believe in the importance of collaboration, respect and openness and with this in mind, we will campaign to make our industry a safer environment for all.”