Shirley Ballas

Shirley Ballas is a champion ballroom dancer, world-renowned dance teacher and adjudicator, best-selling author, and head judge on Strictly Come Dancing.

Dancing since the age of seven, she is three-time British Open to the World Latin American champion, ten-time United States Latin American champion, and multiple-time British National champion. By 21, Shirley had won nearly every major title she competed in worldwide.

In addition to her role on Strictly, Shirley has commentated on Dancing with the Stars, is a frequent panellist on Loose Women, and was the subject of BBC1’s Who Do You Think You Are?

Alder Hey holds a special place in Shirley’s heart. A Charity Champion alongside her partner, actor and producer Daniel Taylor, Shirley played a valuable role as an Appeal Ambassador for our 7in10 Mental Health campaign. With her deeply personal connection with mental health, Shirley spoke passionately on the importance of children’s mental health, helping us to raise £3 million for our new state-of-the-art Mental Health Hub.

At the 2022 RHS Chelsea Flower Show, which featured our ‘Urban Foraging Station,’ Daniel and Shirley increased the profile of our 7in10 Mental Health Appeal and spoke passionately on the importance of children’s mental health.