Radio presenter Scott Mills is stepping back from his position as an ambassador for MS Society UK, the charity has officially confirmed. This development follows his recent dismissal from the BBC, which occurred after revelations about a Metropolitan Police investigation into historical allegations of serious sexual offences.
Charity Responds to Controversy
In a statement released on Tuesday, MS Society UK acknowledged Mills' decade-long advocacy for multiple sclerosis, a commitment that began after his mother, Sandra, was diagnosed with the progressive neurological condition. The charity emphasised that Mills is "stepping back" while they conduct a review of the situation.
The statement read: "Scott Mills has been a valued MS Society Ambassador for over 10 years. In light of the current news, Scott is stepping back from this role while we review the situation. We take concerns of this nature and the trust placed in us as a charity extremely seriously. Our priority is the MS community and ensuring we can continue to support everyone living with and affected by MS."
Background of the BBC Dismissal
The former Radio 2 DJ was sacked by the BBC after it emerged that the Metropolitan Police had launched an investigation in 2016 into allegations involving a teenage boy under 16 between 1997 and 2000. The BBC has since admitted it was aware of a police investigation into historical sexual offence allegations against Mills in 2017 but stated it "acted decisively" upon receiving "new information" shortly before his dismissal.
Mills, through his lawyers, released a statement last week addressing the situation, saying he had been subjected to "rumour and speculation" since his firing and that he "co-operated fully" with the police investigation.
Impact on Other Charitable Roles
In addition to stepping back from MS Society UK, Mills has also been dropped as a patron by children's cancer charity Neuroblastoma UK, where he had served since 2021. The charity announced: "Following his dismissal from the BBC, Neuroblastoma UK have taken the decision to part ways with Scott Mills and he is no longer a patron of our charity."
Furthermore, Mills has been removed as the host of the BBC's new Race Across The World spin-off podcast, indicating broader professional repercussions beyond his radio role.
Mills' Advocacy Work for MS
Since becoming an ambassador for MS Society UK in 2015, Mills has been actively involved in fundraising and awareness campaigns for multiple sclerosis. His contributions have included participation in MS walks and various events aimed at supporting those affected by the condition.
Multiple sclerosis is a disease of the central nervous system that affects the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, numbness, vision problems, and walking difficulties, according to NHS information.
The removal of a plaque named "Scott Mills Bridge" from a motorway service station further underscores the widespread impact of these developments on his public profile and charitable associations.
