Community Support – The Almshouse Association welcomes new Vice Patrons

Our Vice Patrons generously offer their name and standing to support the Association, helping to raise our visibility and generate interest in our work. In doing so, they play a vital role by lending their influence, endorsement, and encouragement.

The Almshouse Association is pleased to report the continued growth of our list of Vice Patrons, with recent additions including actor Hugh Bonneville (below left) and musician Jools Holland (below right).

“I am delighted to support the charity’s work, which provides such vital support across our communities.” Hugh Bonneville

Hugh Bonneville is a celebrated British actor, known for his stage work at the National Theatre and the Royal Shakespeare Company, for television shows like The Gold and the BAFTA winning W1A and for films such as Downton Abbey and Paddington. Widely respected for both his craft and his charitable work, Hugh brings great warmth and recognition to the causes he supports.

Jools Holland is a renowned musician, bandleader, and television presenter, celebrated for his virtuosic piano playing and as the host of Later… with Jools Holland. Over a career spanning decades, he has collaborated with countless artists across genres, bringing his passion for music to audiences worldwide. Beyond his artistic achievements, Jools is actively involved in charitable work, supporting initiatives that promote music education, community projects, and broader social causes. His dedication and influence make him a valued supporter for The Almshouse Association.

We are immensely grateful to everyone who supports our fundraising efforts

Our Vice Patrons play a particularly valuable role by helping us identify potential supporters, often drawing on their own personal and professional networks. Where connections exist, we reach out to charitable trusts and foundations, with Vice Patrons adding their own insight and personal touch to our communications. This simple, collaborative approach has served us well, and we remain confident it will continue to bring positive results

Beyond fundraising, Vice Patrons have provided invaluable help in other ways, such as assisting with events to promote almshouses, introducing us to public relations experts and raising relevant issues in Parliament. Once again, we are sincerely grateful for their ongoing support.

A full list of our Vice Patrons can be found here.

posted October 2025