Hospitality Action welcomes latest patron and trustee

The industry charity, Hospitality Action, has welcomed Charlie Hodson, director of Hodson Norfolk, as its newest patron and Helen Milligan-Smith, Aramark UK president and CEO, as a trustee in the new year.   

Hodson joins the charity as a patron, having demonstrated his commitment to championing the wellbeing of hospitality workers and his passion for creating positive change. 

He recently participated in Hospitality Action’s Walk for Wellbeing 2024 where he covered 155 miles from Norwich to London over five days, for the benefit of raising vital funds and awareness for the cause. 

Hodson said: “I feel so very humbled and blessed to be a part of this amazing charity that I, and my family, hold so very dear to our hearts. As a patron of Hospitality Action, I hope to be able to share my own mental health journey- and help bring support to those who need encouragement and strength in their time of need by our promise that simply says, ‘We’ve got you’.”

Meanwhile, Milligan-Smith brings a wealth of industry experience and strategic expertise to support in providing governance, guidance and insights to help expand Hospitality Action’s reach. 

Milligan-Smith added: “It’s an incredible privilege to join the board of trustees for this remarkable charity. Hospitality Action plays a vital role in providing essential support to our industry, offering a lifeline to so many during challenging times. I am truly honoured to step into this role and look forward to supporting their charitable endeavours. 

“Now, more than ever, our industry needs charities like Hospitality Action, and I am excited to be a part of its continued success.”

Hospitality Action has also appointed 16 additional ambassadors – including the founder of Hospitality Hero, Steven Hesketh, HOSPA CEO, Jane Pendlebury, and GM of De Vere Hotel Tortworth Court, Raphael Herzog – who will join over 130 existing ambassadors in championing the charity’s work.