Rotherham Hospice appoints three leading local figures as ambassadors
Rotherham Hospice is proud to announce the appointment of three prominent local business leaders as official ambassadors: Phil Smith, Scott Thorpe and Jamie Sharp.
Each brings a deep personal connection to the town and a shared commitment to strengthening hospice care for the people of Rotherham.
Phil Smith: “There’s nothing more important”
Rotherham-born and raised, Phil Smith has built an internationally successful career in banking, investmshare Rotherham Hospice is proud to announce the appointment of three prominent local business leaders as official ambassadors: Phil Smith, Scott Thorpe and Jamie Sharp.
ent management and technology. Recently appointed Independent Non-Executive Director at Rotherham United, Phil has long been a passionate supporter of both the football club and the town it represents.
His connection to the hospice, however, is deeply personal.
“I’ve had three family members come through the hospice over the last 20 years,” Phil said. “Every single time, they did something for the family that was quite important.
“I think treating people in palliative care is probably the most important thing you can do in society. It’s not just about the person in care, it’s about the family around them who are feeling the grief and loss. There’s nothing else that could beat it.”
As an ambassador, Phil is clear about his goal: “Raise you bag loads of money. Simple as that.”
Scott Thorpe: Giving back in meaningful ways
Scott Thorpe, CEO of TMG Mortgage Network, has already demonstrated his commitment to the hospice through transformative partnerships — including gifting the naming rights of Parkgate FC’s ground to create the Rotherham Hospice Community Stadium.
A proud Rotherham lad, Scott sees the role as a natural extension of his community work.
“It’s about giving back,” he said. “We’ve had staff who’ve been through the hospice experience. It means everything to the town. We’ve all got to look after the families and people around us.”
Beyond fundraising, Scott hopes to use his business expertise to support the hospice’s long-term sustainability. “Raise loads of money, but ultimately awareness — and how we in business can help guide the way the hospice raises money.”
Jamie Sharp: Inspiring the next generation
Jamie Sharp, Business Manager at MTL Advanced, has supported Rotherham Hospice for many years through corporate partnerships and hands-on community projects.
Most recently, MTL Advanced apprentices manufactured hundreds of steel feathers for the hospice’s Feather Appeal at Wentworth Woodhouse — demonstrating the power of skills, craftsmanship and compassion working together.
“I was fortunate not to have a personal connection through loss at first — it was through business,” Jamie explained. “But once you understand what the hospice is about and how it supports families, you just carry on helping.”
For Jamie, the ambassador role is also about education and legacy. “It’s been great getting younger apprentices involved and helping them understand what a hospice is and does. Through the company, we want to continue generating revenue and media exposure to support the hospice.”
Strengthening community focus
The appointments align closely with Rotherham Hospice’s strategic ambition to build stronger community partnerships and ensure long-term financial resilience. By working alongside influential local leaders, the hospice aims to increase awareness of its services, inspire new supporters, and secure the funding required to continue adding more life to every day for people facing terminal illness.
Rotherham Hospice CEO Mat Cottle-Shaw said:
“We are incredibly proud to welcome Phil, Scott and Jamie as ambassadors. Each of them represents the very best of our town — leadership, generosity and community spirit.
“Their advocacy will help us reach new audiences, strengthen partnerships and continue providing exceptional, personalised end of life care for everyone who needs us.”
About Rotherham Hospice
As an independent charity, Rotherham Hospice relies on community support to continue providing personalised, compassionate end of life care.
It costs £10.2 million each year to run our services. Just 37% of that is funded, meaning we must raise £6.6 million every year to continue supporting local people.
We care for more than 2,100 patients and their families annually — a number that continues to grow as our population increases and demand for end of life care rises.
With strong advocacy, committed partners and the backing of our community, we can continue to meet that demand and add more life to every day for everyone facing terminal illness in Rotherham.
For more information about supporting Rotherham Hospice, visit: rotherhamhospice.org.uk
