Crisis works with high-profile supporters, including our ambassadors, celebrities and influencers who are vital in campaigning, fundraising, and raising awareness of the work we do all year round in the fight to end homelessness across Great Britain.
After supporting Crisis for several years, broadcaster and television presenter Ayo Akinwolere took part in Crisis’ Icebreaker challenge to help raise money by facing the freezing waters of Brockwell Lido. Ayo then became an ambassador in 2021 and has continued to support us by providing entertainment for guests at Crisis’ Christmas services, volunteering at our warehouse and helping us raise awareness and funds for our Christmas campaign.
“Homelessness is a really complicated and complex situation across Britain, but with the right approach we can end it. There’s a lot of work still to be done and I’m grateful to have the opportunity to help raise awareness where I can.”
Jo Brand, comedian and presenter, has been an active supporter of Crisis since 2009. Over the years, Jo has helped us raise awareness and funds by performing stand-up comedy for Crisis at Christmas, hosting fundraising events such as the Crisis Square Mile Run, launching the BBC Lifeline Appeal for Crisis on primetime TV, and voiced our Crisis at Christmas radio ads for several years.
Most recently, Jo sat down with former Crisis member, Joan, to discuss Joan’s experiences of homelessness and how Crisis changed her life.
“I just feel in a society like ours that nobody should be homeless and that we should all think about it a lot more. To me that’s what Crisis does, they think about structuring the support people get to help them along the way and don’t abandon them. I think Crisis is absolutely on track at knowing the right way to go forward with ending homelessness.”
After supporting Crisis for several years, broadcaster and television presenter Ayo Akinwolere took part in Crisis’ Icebreaker challenge to help raise money by facing the freezing waters of Brockwell Lido. Ayo then became an ambassador in 2021 and has continued to support us by providing entertainment for guests at Crisis’ Christmas services, volunteering at our warehouse and helping us raise awareness and funds for our Christmas campaign.
“Homelessness is a really complicated and complex situation across Britain, but with the right approach we can end it. There’s a lot of work still to be done and I’m grateful to have the opportunity to help raise awareness where I can.”
Jo Brand, comedian and presenter, has been an active supporter of Crisis since 2009. Over the years, Jo has helped us raise awareness and funds by performing stand-up comedy for Crisis at Christmas, hosting fundraising events such as the Crisis Square Mile Run, launching the BBC Lifeline Appeal for Crisis on primetime TV, and voiced our Crisis at Christmas radio ads for several years.
Most recently, Jo sat down with former Crisis member, Joan, to discuss Joan’s experiences of homelessness and how Crisis changed her life.
“I just feel in a society like ours that nobody should be homeless and that we should all think about it a lot more. To me that’s what Crisis does, they think about structuring the support people get to help them along the way and don’t abandon them. I think Crisis is absolutely on track at knowing the right way to go forward with ending homelessness.”
Al Doyle, singer and instrumentalist with critically acclaimed bands Hot Chip and LCD Soundsystem, first supported Crisis in May 2009 when Hot Chip played one of Crisis’ Hidden Gigs. Later in 2016, Al appeared at the Common People Prom in aid of Crisis, and that same year led a full term’s course in digital music for Crisis clients at Skylight London. Most recently, he supported our Make History campaign in the run up to the 2024 general election by signing our open letter
Singer-songwriter Ellie Goulding first started supporting Crisis in 2015 when she joined Crisis members for a music workshop, sharing her thoughts on song writing and answering questions about singing techniques. During the Covid-19 pandemic, Ellie and her management company also supported Crisis’ emergency response by providing 400 mobile phones with data for people experiencing homelessness so they could continue to access support from the charity.
Ellie continues to play a key role in supporting Crisis’ campaigning and fundraising but has also been a regular volunteer at Crisis’ Christmas centres over the years. Most recently in December 2024, she volunteered her time serving tea and coffee, chatting with guests and helping in our pop-up hairdressing salon.
"Every year, I’m so grateful to be able to volunteer with Crisis at Christmas and it’s wonderful to have the opportunity to speak with guests who walk through the doors. Crisis are able to change the lives of so many people experiencing homelessness – providing guests with companionship and support. No one should have to face Christmas without the warmth and security of a safe home.”
Al Doyle, singer and instrumentalist with critically acclaimed bands Hot Chip and LCD Soundsystem, first supported Crisis in May 2009 when Hot Chip played one of Crisis’ Hidden Gigs. Later in 2016, Al appeared at the Common People Prom in aid of Crisis, and that same year led a full term’s course in digital music for Crisis clients at Skylight London. Most recently, he supported our Make History campaign in the run up to the 2024 general election by signing our open letter
Singer-songwriter Ellie Goulding first started supporting Crisis in 2015 when she joined Crisis members for a music workshop, sharing her thoughts on song writing and answering questions about singing techniques. During the Covid-19 pandemic, Ellie and her management company also supported Crisis’ emergency response by providing 400 mobile phones with data for people experiencing homelessness so they could continue to access support from the charity.
Ellie continues to play a key role in supporting Crisis’ campaigning and fundraising but has also been a regular volunteer at Crisis’ Christmas centres over the years. Most recently in December 2024, she volunteered her time serving tea and coffee, chatting with guests and helping in our pop-up hairdressing salon.
"Every year, I’m so grateful to be able to volunteer with Crisis at Christmas and it’s wonderful to have the opportunity to speak with guests who walk through the doors. Crisis are able to change the lives of so many people experiencing homelessness – providing guests with companionship and support. No one should have to face Christmas without the warmth and security of a safe home.”
Model and activist, Nyome Nicholas-Williams, is a regular visitor to Crisis’ shops and is passionate about shopping preloved fashion. Nyome became a Crisis ambassador in 2022 and has used her platform to increase awareness of how our shops help raise money to end homelessness. She volunteered and modelled at the Elephant and Castle shop to witness first-hand the vital role our shops play in supporting Crisis’ mission. In February 2025, Nyome hosted a panel event with fellow plus size influencers and creators to help Crisis kickstart a conversation around how charity shops can cater better to plus sizes.
“I believe everyone should have a safe and stable place to live so I am eager to work closely with Crisis to help make that happen. The ongoing cost-of-living crisis means that many more people could be put at risk of becoming homeless in the coming months, which means the services Crisis provides to help people will be more needed than ever. I want to assist in raising awareness and ensuring those in desperate need do not go unnoticed.”
Actor, Jonathan Pryce, was a close supporter of Crisis for many years before becoming an ambassador in 2018. Jonathan has visited his local London Skylight to discuss ideas, is a regular attendee at our annual carol service, singing in the choir with Crisis members, and has donated many valuable items to Crisis shops.
In 2024, Jonathan was a supporter of our Make History campaign in the lead up to the general election where he signed our open letter, wrote an op-ed in The Observer and was involved in social content alongside other supporters. Most recently, Jonathan provided the voice over for our TV advert in January 2025 with the aim to inspire people to give year-round and help end homelessness.
“In the mid-80s, I took part in a small film that showed the plight of people forced to sleep rough in “cardboard city” on the South Bank. I was deeply moved by the testimonies of those living there, and now, 40 years later, that empathy has turned to anger as successive governments have failed to deliver enough social housing and bring down homelessness. My own childhood was secure, but a generation are being robbed of theirs. A safe, secure home should be considered a basic foundation – not a luxury."
Model and activist, Nyome Nicholas-Williams, is a regular visitor to Crisis’ shops and is passionate about shopping preloved fashion. Nyome became a Crisis ambassador in 2022 and has used her platform to increase awareness of how our shops help raise money to end homelessness. She volunteered and modelled at the Elephant and Castle shop to witness first-hand the vital role our shops play in supporting Crisis’ mission. In February 2025, Nyome hosted a panel event with fellow plus size influencers and creators to help Crisis kickstart a conversation around how charity shops can cater better to plus sizes.
“I believe everyone should have a safe and stable place to live so I am eager to work closely with Crisis to help make that happen. The ongoing cost-of-living crisis means that many more people could be put at risk of becoming homeless in the coming months, which means the services Crisis provides to help people will be more needed than ever. I want to assist in raising awareness and ensuring those in desperate need do not go unnoticed.”
Actor, Jonathan Pryce, was a close supporter of Crisis for many years before becoming an ambassador in 2018. Jonathan has visited his local London Skylight to discuss ideas, is a regular attendee at our annual carol service, singing in the choir with Crisis members, and has donated many valuable items to Crisis shops.
In 2024, Jonathan was a supporter of our Make History campaign in the lead up to the general election where he signed our open letter, wrote an op-ed in The Observer and was involved in social content alongside other supporters. Most recently, Jonathan provided the voice over for our TV advert in January 2025 with the aim to inspire people to give year-round and help end homelessness.
“In the mid-80s, I took part in a small film that showed the plight of people forced to sleep rough in “cardboard city” on the South Bank. I was deeply moved by the testimonies of those living there, and now, 40 years later, that empathy has turned to anger as successive governments have failed to deliver enough social housing and bring down homelessness. My own childhood was secure, but a generation are being robbed of theirs. A safe, secure home should be considered a basic foundation – not a luxury."
Actor, Imelda Staunton, supported Crisis for 10 years before becoming an ambassador in 2021. Over the years, she has regularly attended Crisis events, visited our services and supported our Domestic Abuse campaign in early 2020 to call for a change in the law to ensure people fleeing domestic abuse can access homelessness support. Imelda has also volunteered alongside her family at our warehouse and Christmas services by serving lunch, chatting with guests and providing support for people experiencing homelessness at one of the toughest times of year.
“Homelessness is still a major issue in this country and I’m happy to do anything I can to support Crisis in their efforts to put an end to homelessness once and for all.”
Alastair Stewart, journalist and newscaster, first supported Crisis in 2009 when he presented a BBC Lifeline film on our behalf. Since then, he has presided over numerous events and projects which included ‘News 50’, a steering group of news journalists stewarded alongside Jeremy Paxman for our 50th anniversary.
Alastair has continued his support through promoting Crisis at Christmas on ITV’s website and even asking Gary Lineker to persuade Walkers Crisps to supply a haul of snacks when Crisis at Christmas supplies had run out. In 2021, Alastair helped Crisis thank players of the People’s Postcode Lottery who had continued to show their support despite the Covid-19 pandemic the year previous.
Actor, Imelda Staunton, supported Crisis for 10 years before becoming an ambassador in 2021. Over the years, she has regularly attended Crisis events, visited our services and supported our Domestic Abuse campaign in early 2020 to call for a change in the law to ensure people fleeing domestic abuse can access homelessness support. Imelda has also volunteered alongside her family at our warehouse and Christmas services by serving lunch, chatting with guests and providing support for people experiencing homelessness at one of the toughest times of year.
“Homelessness is still a major issue in this country and I’m happy to do anything I can to support Crisis in their efforts to put an end to homelessness once and for all.”
Alastair Stewart, journalist and newscaster, first supported Crisis in 2009 when he presented a BBC Lifeline film on our behalf. Since then, he has presided over numerous events and projects which included ‘News 50’, a steering group of news journalists stewarded alongside Jeremy Paxman for our 50th anniversary.
Alastair has continued his support through promoting Crisis at Christmas on ITV’s website and even asking Gary Lineker to persuade Walkers Crisps to supply a haul of snacks when Crisis at Christmas supplies had run out. In 2021, Alastair helped Crisis thank players of the People’s Postcode Lottery who had continued to show their support despite the Covid-19 pandemic the year previous.
Best known for her role in Bridgerton, actor Bessie Carter has been a champion of Crisis’ work since her mum Imelda introduced her to the charity. Over recent years, Bessie has attended Crisis events, supported preparations at our warehouse ahead of the opening of our Christmas services and has even encouraged fellow friends in the industry to come along and support Crisis alongside her.
Singer-songwriter, Tom Grennan, first volunteered at our warehouse in December 2024. Tom played a key role in bringing the festive spirit by singing Christmas songs whilst preparing packs of essential items, such as toiletries and warm winter clothing, for guests to receive when they arrive at the Crisis at Christmas hotel.
Best known for her role in Bridgerton, actor Bessie Carter has been a champion of Crisis’ work since her mum Imelda introduced her to the charity. Over recent years, Bessie has attended Crisis events, supported preparations at our warehouse ahead of the opening of our Christmas services and has even encouraged fellow friends in the industry to come along and support Crisis alongside her.
Singer-songwriter, Tom Grennan, first volunteered at our warehouse in December 2024. Tom played a key role in bringing the festive spirit by singing Christmas songs whilst preparing packs of essential items, such as toiletries and warm winter clothing, for guests to receive when they arrive at the Crisis at Christmas hotel.
Chris Martin, singer-songwriter and frontman of band Coldplay, has supported Crisis for over 27 years. Chris has volunteered every Christmas to help the charity in its preparations for opening its vital Christmas services, including surprising guests and volunteers with a surprise acoustic set with a guest at one of our London centres in 2016 and helping serve customers at our Finsbury Park coffee shop in 2023.
Chris and his fellow bandmates are dedicated in using their talent to help Crisis raise funds to support people experiencing homelessness. First in 2010, Coldplay performed in both Liverpool and Newcastle as part of the Crisis Hidden Gigs series. Most recently, in December 2024, Chris and fellow bandmate Jonny Buckland played a special, one-off show at Hackney Church in aid of Crisis, raising over a staggering £350,000 in just 40 hours.
Actor, Sir Ian McKellen, has supported Crisis for many years and has helped raise funds for the charity after narrating our Crisis at Christmas TV and Radio appeals for three consecutive years from 2012. He has also visited our Christmas services, chatting with guests on Boxing Day, and even hosted a special dinner at his very own riverside pub in Limehouse.
Chris Martin, singer-songwriter and frontman of band Coldplay, has supported Crisis for over 27 years. Chris has volunteered every Christmas to help the charity in its preparations for opening its vital Christmas services, including surprising guests and volunteers with a surprise acoustic set with a guest at one of our London centres in 2016 and helping serve customers at our Finsbury Park coffee shop in 2023.
Chris and his fellow bandmates are dedicated in using their talent to help Crisis raise funds to support people experiencing homelessness. First in 2010, Coldplay performed in both Liverpool and Newcastle as part of the Crisis Hidden Gigs series. Most recently, in December 2024, Chris and fellow bandmate Jonny Buckland played a special, one-off show at Hackney Church in aid of Crisis, raising over a staggering £350,000 in just 40 hours.
Actor, Sir Ian McKellen, has supported Crisis for many years and has helped raise funds for the charity after narrating our Crisis at Christmas TV and Radio appeals for three consecutive years from 2012. He has also visited our Christmas services, chatting with guests on Boxing Day, and even hosted a special dinner at his very own riverside pub in Limehouse.
Actor Will Poulter has supported Crisis for over four years, helping the charity by volunteering both his time and acting skills to raise money and awareness. In 2021, Will contributed to the voice over of Crisis’ film ‘12 Nights’ which highlighted the devastation of homelessness and the life-changing support that Crisis provides. In years since, Will has spent time at our warehouse helping the team by sorting food donations amongst other tasks to help us prepare for the opening of our Christmas services.
Singer-songwriter, Ed Sheeran, has supported Crisis’ campaigning work over the years after breakthrough song ‘The A-Team’ was based on his experience of volunteering at Crisis at Christmas. In 2012, Ed supported our No Going Home campaign, ensuring that plans to stop under 25s from claiming housing benefit were dropped. Similarly, Ed also backed Crisis’ No One Turned Away campaign which called for every person experiencing homelessness who approaches their council would get the help they need. Ed has also led workshops with members in both Newcastle and London, performing song ‘You Need Me, I Don’t Need You’ at our Merseyside Skylight.
Actor Will Poulter has supported Crisis for over four years, helping the charity by volunteering both his time and acting skills to raise money and awareness. In 2021, Will contributed to the voice over of Crisis’ film ‘12 Nights’ which highlighted the devastation of homelessness and the life-changing support that Crisis provides. In years since, Will has spent time at our warehouse helping the team by sorting food donations amongst other tasks to help us prepare for the opening of our Christmas services.
Singer-songwriter, Ed Sheeran, has supported Crisis’ campaigning work over the years after breakthrough song ‘The A-Team’ was based on his experience of volunteering at Crisis at Christmas. In 2012, Ed supported our No Going Home campaign, ensuring that plans to stop under 25s from claiming housing benefit were dropped. Similarly, Ed also backed Crisis’ No One Turned Away campaign which called for every person experiencing homelessness who approaches their council would get the help they need. Ed has also led workshops with members in both Newcastle and London, performing song ‘You Need Me, I Don’t Need You’ at our Merseyside Skylight.