Hampshire’s “inspirational” Alessia joins Duke of Sussex in call for nominations for local unsung heroes at 2026 WellChild Awards

In association with GSK, the prestigious annual event celebrates the inspirational qualities of some of the UK’s seriously ill children and young people, and the dedication of those who go that extra mile to care for them.

Alessia is a devoted and caring sister to her twin, Sofia, who has severe cerebral palsy and complex health needs. From the very beginning, Alessia, who has mild cerebral palsy herself, has been by Sofia’s side – not just as a twin, but as a best friend and constant source of support. Whether it was making a video to introduce Sofia to her new classmates to help her feel included, giving up hobbies to be at her side, or using her own money to buy toys to make Sofia smile, Alessia’s empathy and quiet resilience represent the thousands of young carers across the UK.

Commenting on the award win, Alessia said: “Winning a WellChild Award was one of the highlights of my life. It’s given me confidence and pride. The awards ceremony was one of the best nights I've ever attended. It was amazing meeting so many famous people, and they were all so kind. I wish I could do it all over again."

As a 2026 WellChild Awards winner, Alessia got to meet and spend time with the Duke of Sussex, who described her as “nothing short of inspiring”. He said: “Meeting Alessia was a real privilege. Her empathy, resilience and unwavering support for her sister, along with all the sacrifices she’s made, are nothing short of inspiring. She is a wonderful example of kindness in action and the perfect example of a brilliant Inspirational Sibling WellChild Award winner.”

With the support of Alessia and the Duke of Sussex, WellChild is calling on people from Hampshire to put forward nominations to ensure their community "superstars" receive the national recognition they deserve. Categories include:

● 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: “Young people like Alessia truly embody what the WellChild Awards are all about – resilience, compassion and the determination to thrive in the face of adversity. Across the UK, more and more families are caring for children with serious and complex health needs. Behind every child’s story is a network of extraordinary people who go above and beyond every single day.

“The WellChild Awards 2026, in association with GSK, give us the opportunity to recognise that courage and commitment – not only from the children and young people themselves, but also from their parents, siblings and the professionals who support them with unwavering dedication, all working to keep these children as healthy and happy as possible.”

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 Hampshire who deserves to be celebrated, please visit: www.wellchild.org.uk/awards

The closing date for nominations is Sunday 15th March 2026.

A call for nominations from the Duke of Sussex can be viewed here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JruArtL_Kz4