Pop star and actor Olly Alexander has become a patron of Brighton-based HIV charity The Sussex Beacon.
The songwriter and star of HIV drama It’s A Sin first worked with the charity last year, when he ran the Brighton Half Marathon to raise money for it in August.
Olly ultimately started the entire race, before setting off with other Team Beacon runners.
He’s now set to become an ambassador for it, and help with more fundraising activities.
He said: “I feel so privileged to be a patron of the wonderful Sussex Beacon. I’ve truly fallen in love with the amazing team and the service users I’ve met.
“The Beacon’s work is so vital to the community, I’m excited and deeply proud to be supporting them, especially alongside the incredible Jill Nalder.”
Rachel Brett, CEO of The Sussex Beacon, said: “We are delighted that Olly has become a patron of The Sussex Beacon.
“The power of his role in It’s a Sin should not be underestimated; the series shone a powerful light on a terrible injustice to people who were diagnosed with HIV and dying from AIDS-related illnesses.
“The associated trauma and stigma are still very much a legacy endured by people living with HIV today.
She added: “We are particularly proud that Olly, as an LGBTQ+ activist, will be supporting us to tackle health inequalities, as we evolve our specialist hospice offer to LGBTQ+ patients, alongside our care and support for people living with HIV.
“With patrons such as Olly, The Sussex Beacon can continue to lead the way in providing inclusive and affirming care, to those who are the most marginalised in our communities.”
Jill Nalder OBE, the inspiration behind It’s A Sin, becoming a patron of The Sussex Beacon in March 2021.
