Prince Harry is set to return to the UK next month to attend the 20th anniversary WellChild Awards ceremony, the charity has confirmed. The event will be held in London on September 8, marking three years since the passing of Queen Elizabeth II.
The Duke of Sussex, who has served as Patron of WellChild for 17 years, will present the Award for Inspirational Child (aged 4–6) and deliver a heartfelt speech to mark the milestone year for the organisation.
This visit will be Harry’s first trip to the UK since April, when he appeared in a London courtroom to appeal a High Court ruling regarding his security arrangements in the country. During that visit, he also gave a headline-making interview to the BBC, stating he would “love a reconciliation” with his family.
A Meaningful Return
The date of this year’s awards carries emotional weight for the Duke. In 2022, Harry had been scheduled to attend the ceremony but cancelled at the last minute as members of the royal family rushed to Balmoral following news of the Queen’s declining health. The monarch passed away later that day.
Last year, on the eve of her first anniversary, Harry returned to the WellChild Awards and paid tribute to his late grandmother in a moving speech.
“As you know, I was unable to attend the awards the previous year as my grandmother passed away,” he told the audience.
“As you also probably know, she would have been the first person to insist that I still come to be with you all instead of going to her. And that’s precisely why I know, exactly one year on, she is looking down on all of us tonight, happy we’re together continuing to spotlight such an incredible community.”
A Charity Close to His Heart
Speaking ahead of this year’s event, Prince Harry shared his continued admiration for the WellChild community:
“I am always privileged to attend the WellChild Awards and meet the incredible children, families, and professionals who inspire us all with their strength and spirit.”
“For 20 years these Awards have highlighted the courage of young people living with complex health needs and shone a light on the devoted caregivers—family and professionals—who support them every step of the way. Their stories remind us of the power of compassion, connection, and community.”
WellChild Chief Executive Matt James echoed the sentiment: “We are excited to celebrate the 20th WellChild Awards, in association with GSK. Across the UK, more families are caring for children with serious and complex medical needs. Behind each winner’s story is a network of extraordinary people who go above and beyond every single day.”
“The WellChild Awards give us the opportunity to recognise and celebrate the resilience of these remarkable children and young people—and the dedication of the parents, siblings, and professionals who support them.”
Looking Ahead
While there is no word yet on whether Prince Harry will reunite with other members of the royal family during his London visit, the occasion underscores his ongoing commitment to causes he championed long before stepping back from royal duties.
As WellChild marks two decades of uplifting some of the UK’s most courageous children and families, Harry’s presence once again puts a spotlight on the charity’s life-changing work.
