Aston Villa legend announced as hospice’s newest ambassador

Acorns Children’s Hospice has made a new star signing – welcoming former Aston Villa striker Gabby Agbonlahor as its newest ambassador.

The Birmingham-born football legend returned to Acorns in Birmingham this week to officially launch the partnership revisiting the hospice spaces he first saw years ago during Villa player visits.

This time, Gabby saw how far the charity has come, with beautifully modernised spaces and the hospice’s brand-new family care suites that enable parents to stay by their child’s side, day and night.

During his visit, Gabby met children and families currently supported by Acorns, as well as dedicated staff and volunteers who make the charity’s care possible every day.

Gabby said: “It’s a real honour to become an Ambassador for Acorns.

I’ve known about the charity for years from my time at Aston Villa and the work they do is incredible. The care they provide means so much to local families – they’re always there, offering help and support when it’s needed most.

“Acorns needs the community’s backing now more than ever, so as Ambassador I want to do everything I can to raise awareness and funds to help them continue their amazing work across Birmingham and the West Midlands.

“This city means everything to me. Being able to give something back through Acorns feels really special, and I’m proud to join Team Acorns.”

Born and raised in Birmingham, Gabby spent 11 seasons with Aston Villa.

His connection to Acorns is also personal, with family members having received the charity’s specialist care and support.

Vicky Smith, executive director of Income Generation, said: “We’re absolutely delighted to welcome Gabby as our newest Acorns Ambassador.

“As a true Birmingham icon, Gabby brings not only his passion but also a powerful platform to help amplify our work.

“It was a pleasure to welcome Gabby back to Acorns in Birmingham, where he saw first-hand the specialist care and support we provide to children and families. He reconnected with the hospice and children immediately.

“We’re excited about the journey ahead and the incredible potential this partnership holds to raise awareness of the vital care we provide across the West Midlands.”

Acorns Children’s Hospice provides specialist palliative care for babies, children and young people with life limiting and life threatening conditions, and support for their families.

In the past year, the charity has cared for more than 780 children across the West Midlands, and supported over 1,000 families, including those who are bereaved.

Children visit Acorns for rehabilitative respite, symptom management, emergency and end-of-life care.

This care and support is provided from Acorns three hospices, based in Birmingham, Walsall and Worcester, and in the community.

Acorns needs around £35,000 each day to provide its children’s hospice care, with more than 70 per cent of that amount coming from generous donations and fundraising by the local community.

Help can’t wait for children and families who need Acorns lifeline care. Donate to Acorns today by visiting the website.

Pictured (L-R): Vicky Smith, Gabby Agbonlahor and Trevor Johnson (CEO of Acorns Children’s Hospice)