Sarah Parish recently completed a lengthy drive back from Cornwall after enjoying a relaxing three-day getaway with her husband James Murray and some close friends. The 57-year-old actress has been balancing two diverse careers for the past decade: acting and running a children’s charity that she established following a personal tragedy.
In 2009, Sarah and James tragically lost their daughter Ella-Jayne to a rare genetic disorder. In memory of Ella-Jayne, they founded The Murray Parish Trust, which has raised over £5 million for Southampton Children’s Hospital. The charity, now known as Inspire This, focuses on providing support for the mental health of seriously ill children and their families.
Sarah and James received MBEs for their charity work earlier this year and are determined to reach every seriously ill child in the UK by 2035. Their goal is to offer a range of activities and supportive spaces in hospitals to improve the experience for families facing unimaginable challenges.
Reflecting on her own experiences, Sarah emphasizes the importance of creating comforting environments in hospitals for families going through tough times. The charity has been a source of strength for Sarah and James, helping them cope with their grief and stay connected.
Despite her successful acting career, Sarah admits that balancing TV roles with charity work can be overwhelming. She remains passionate about both pursuits and believes they complement each other well. Sarah highlights some of her career highlights, including roles in popular TV shows and dramas.
As she navigates perimenopause and the challenges of aging in the entertainment industry, Sarah remains proactive in developing her own projects. She emphasizes the importance of female actors taking control of their careers and creating opportunities for themselves.
Sarah’s focus on family, charity work, and close friendships brings her true happiness. She values downtime at her rural Hampshire home and stays connected with her friends through virtual means. Finding joy in simple moments has become a priority for Sarah as she embraces the changes and challenges of life.