FHC chair Philippa Harris said the charity – which provides short UK breaks to underprivileged families – welcomed Lo Bue-Said’s “strategy and travel expertise” as well as her “energy and drive to help us achieve our mission”.

“Like lots of charities, we face some key strategic challenges post-pandemic in a difficult funding climate. Julia is joining the board at a critical time to ensure the charity’s future success,” said Harris. “With more than 2.2m families unable to access a holiday, the board and executive will be working together to look at finding ways to sustainably balance the demands and long- and short-term challenges and opportunities in achieving its mission.”

Lo Bue-Said said she had been a “long-term admirer” of the FHC’s “stellar work” and shared her delight at taking up her new roles with the charity.

She joins fellow board trustees including Tui Group’s David Burling and Jackie Murphy of Flagship Consulting, as well as recent appointees Charlie Hills of Mando-Connect and Ingrid Bussell of Vialto Partners, alongside other established trustees.

Established in 1975, the FHC has already sent more families away in the first half of this year than during the whole of 2021. A feat the charity said had been aided by its partnership with VisitEngland and VisitScotland to reach more than 1,350 families on low incomes going through tough times.

“Travel restrictions over past two years have really showcased the significant social importance of holidays to our wellbeing and mental health, and never more so than for those UK families who are struggling with severe and long-term illness, bereavement, mental health issues, disability and domestic abuse,” added Lo Bue-Said. 

“It will be both an honour and privilege to support the charity’s efforts in supporting families facing tough times to experience a holiday for themselves and a role that I believe will give me a great sense of pride.”