“Jeff has made a significant contribution to Julia’s House and the children and families we care for over many years,” said Mike Bartlett, deputy CEO of Julia’s House.  “Joining us as an ambassador is a reflection of his commitment to the charity as well as the respect and regard with which he is held in the local community.  We are delighted he accepted our invitation to join our highly valued group of ambassadors who help Julia’s House connect with local businesses, organisations and individuals. We hope Jeff is as excited as we are about his new role.”

Working alongside the Julia’s House patrons who include actors Martin Clunes and Nigel Havers, AFC Bournemouth manager, Eddie Howe, and football manager, Harry Redknapp, Julia’s House ambassadors help raise public awareness of the charity among the local community. They host Julia’s House events, attend meetings alongside hospice staff, represent the charity at external events, provide insight and advice on specific issues as well as build new relationships in the community – vital work, as in normal circumstances  Julia’s House only receives five per cent government funding.

Jeff Mostyn said, “I couldn’t be joining Julia’s House at a more challenging time, but one in which the value of the work they do in caring for some of the most vulnerable children in our community has never been greater. I have long been a supporter of the charity and am truly delighted to take on a more formal role as one of their ambassadors – I feel so honoured to have been invited. I am very much looking forward to working alongside my fellow ambassadors and the amazing Julia’s House staff to support the charity in providing such a lifeline of care to so many local families.’’ 

There is no fixed term for the honorary voluntary (non-executive) role, and many ambassadors stay with Julia’s House for a number of years.  Other ambassadors include local businessman James Benamor, Lady Fuller, publisher Mark Allen as well as Julia’s House parents and young ambassadors.

Julia’s House is continuing to care for local children and families during the coronavirus crisis, providing a lifeline of care for anxious and isolated parents and helping the most vulnerable children stay safe and well at home thereby reducing the strain on the NHS.