Actress Joely Richardson has been announced as an ambassador for The Children’s Trust.

After several visits to the charity’s centre in Tadworth, where children with brain injuries are rehabilitated, she decided to give her support to a cause she already has experience of.

She said: “I found The Children’s Trust to be one of the most inspirational places I have ever been. It supports children, and also their families, helping them live the best lives possible following a brain injury.

“I know as Christmas approaches they will be doing everything possible to make it a magical time. I am sadly aware just how devastating brain injury can be. In 2009 I lost my beloved sister, Natasha, after an accident resulted in a brain injury.

“When I visited The Children’s Trust I met some very special children including Jasmine and I was staggered to hear the progress she had made. I have seen first-hand the excellent work The Children’s Trust does to support children and young people, and I am privileged to be part of such a wonderful charity.”

Ms Richardson is best known for playing Catherine Parr in Showtime’s The Tudors, Julia McNamara in Nip/Tuck and Anita in the 2011 Hollywood remake of The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo.

While at the centre, she met children affected by brain injury, including eight-year-old Jasmine, who was left unable to move independently after a road accident.

After the injury, Jasmine could not speak and had to be fed through a tube, but after four months of rehabilitation she was walking, talking and excited to see her friends again.

Dalton Leong, Chief Executive at The Children’s Trust said: “We are absolutely delighted to have the support of Joely Richardson as Ambassador. Awareness of brain injury is increasing, but it is fantastic to have the support of someone so dedicated to helping us increase public understanding.

“Joely’s involvement has already given such an enormous boost to the children, families and staff at The Children’s Trust and we very much welcome her continued support.”

Ms Richardson will be reading at the charity’s Candlelit Christmas Concert on Monday, December 11.