The hunt is on for inspirational children and young people in North Yorkshire – as well as those dedicated to caring for them – as nominations open for the 2026 WellChild Awards, which seek to recognise those with complex care needs alongside the people who support them.

National charity, WellChild, has officially launched its awards this week in association with GSK, which look to celebrate the resilience of children living with serious complex health needs, as well as the selfless dedication of the individuals who go above and beyond to support them.

With thousands of children across the UK living with long-term health challenges, the charity is calling on the community in North Yorkshire to ensure their local "superstars" receive the national recognition they deserve.

Last year’s winners included children like seven-year-old Esmée, described as an "absolute warrior" for her strength through 35 surgeries, and ten-year-old Gwen, who refuses to let spina bifida hold her back from her dreams of competitive wheelchair racing. The awards also honoured selfless siblings like 15-year-old Alessia, a devoted carer for her sister, and professionals like Jackie, a healthcare worker praised for being a "constant presence" for families during their most difficult times.

WellChild, whose patron Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex, is a keen supporter of the awards and attends the annual event, is looking for nominations in several categories, including:

Inspirational Child or Young Person: Aged 4-18, who has shown incredible courage or assisted others despite their own health challenges.

Inspirational Parent/Carer: An individual who has gone the extra mile to care for a child with complex health needs.

Inspirational Health Professional: A doctor, nurse or member of the wider healthcare team who has made a truly exceptional difference to a local family’s life.

Commenting on the awards, Matt James, WellChild’s CEO, said: "The WellChild Awards are our chance to shine a light on the incredible spirit of children and young people living with serious illnesses, as well as the professionals and families who support them. We know there are many unsung heroes in North Yorkshire and we want to hear their stories. We encourage anyone who knows an inspirational child or young person living with complex health needs, or the professionals who care for them, to take a few minutes to nominate them. The recognition is incredibly rewarding and can make a world of difference to those individuals who are put forward."

Alongside the Duke of Sussex’s patronage, WellChild enjoys a wealth of celebrity support, with Molly-Mae, Jaime Laing, Ronnie Wood and Gaby Roslin just some of the personalities to champion the charity last year. The awards culminate in a star-studded ceremony in London where winners from across the UK can meet celebrity guests and share their stories.

Nominations are quick and easy to complete online, so for anyone who knows a child, young person or professional in North Yorkshire who they believe deserves to be celebrated, please visit: www.wellchild.org.uk/awards

The closing date for nominations is 16th March 2026.