BBC Children in Need 2026 - Everything you need to know

One of the most anticipated nights of the television calendar returns to BBC iPlayer and BBC One as BBC Children in Need brings the nation together for a spectacular evening of entertainment, warmth and sparkle, with more than a sprinkle of Hollywood stardust.

Broadcasting live from MediaCityUK, Salford, Alex Jones, Mel Giedroyc, Rylan, Sara Cox and Tyler West host a spectacular three hours of entertainment to celebrate this year's fundraising efforts. Expect a stellar line-up of famous faces, dazzling performances, exclusive sketches, surprise appearances and a heartwarming return from the much-loved Children in Need Choir. Alongside the glitz and glamour, inspiring stories from children and young people across the UK highlight the life-changing impact of BBC Children in Need.

The BBC Children in Need 2026 Appeal show is produced by BBC Studios Entertainment Productions. The Executive Producers are Adam Wydrzynski and Andrew Cartmell.  The Series Producer is Dawn Payne and Mel Balac is the Creative Director. Ruby Kuraishe is the Commissioning Editor for the BBC.

Children in Need 2026 will broadcast live from Salford on BBC iPlayer and BBC One at 7pm on Friday 13 November.

• Watch Children in Need on BBC iPlayer

BBC Children in Need 2026 Appeal

BBC Children in Need 2026 Appeal is calling on people across the UK to get fundraising, take on a challenge and help ensure there is someone by the side of every child when they need it the most.

Leading the launch is a host of famous faces including Jordan Banjo, Emma Bunton, Sara Cox, JB Gill, Mel Giedroyc, Tasha Ghouri, Alex Jones, Angela Scanlon, Gladiators Apollo and Dynamite, Tyler West, Joe Wicks and social stars Ash Holme, Charley Marlowe, and Jack Remmington, who have united to inspire the nation to get involved and help transform young lives.

To mark the start of this year's campaign, several of the stars visited St Andrew's Club in Westminster, a BBC Children in Need-funded youth project supporting children and young people in the local community. The special campaign photoshoot highlighted the life-changing difference that youth projects make by giving young people somewhere to go, something to do and someone to talk to.

Mel Giedroyc said: "BBC Children in Need has an incredible ability to bring people together to make a difference for children and young people across the UK. This year's Appeal is all about making sure every child has someone by their side when they need it most, and everyone can play a part in that. Whether you take on a challenge, donate or support a fundraiser in your community, every contribution helps provide vital support and opportunities for young people. Let’s get behind BBC Children in Need and help make this year's Appeal the biggest yet!”

The launch comes at a critical moment for children and young people across the UK. Rising levels of poverty, inequality and poor mental health are creating growing challenges, while demand for support continues to increase. BBC Children in Need can only afford to fund one in six organisations that ask for help, leaving around half a million children and young people without access to the support they need.

New research commissioned by BBC Children in Need and conducted by Censuswide among 2,000 children aged 11 to 16 and their parents highlights the significant pressures facing young people today. The findings reveal that too many children and young people aged 11-16 are facing challenges alone, with 44%* saying they had felt worried or low and had no one to talk to at least sometimes during the past month. Alarmingly, around one in six (17%**) said they experienced this often or all the time.

The research also sheds light on the barriers preventing young people aged 11-16 from accessing the support, opportunities and activities outside of school. Cost was identified as the biggest obstacle (29%). Meanwhile, 17% lacked the confidence or didn’t feel comfortable to get involved, and a further 18% said there was nothing near where they live.

The findings also point to wider challenges affecting young people's wellbeing and sense of connection. When feeling stressed, worried or upset, around one in six (17%) said they keep their feelings to themselves, while one in eight (12%***) said they do not feel they belong in their local community.

Together, these findings underline the ongoing need for safe spaces, trusted relationships and accessible opportunities that help children and young people build confidence, resilience and a strong sense of belonging.

Every day, BBC Children in Need-funded projects across the UK help provide children and young people with someone to listen, someone to support them and someone to believe in them. Across youth clubs, community groups, family centres, hospices and helplines, more than 1,500 projects are helping young people build confidence, improve their wellbeing and feel more connected to the world around them.

At the heart of this year's appeal is Challenge Yourself 2026, BBC Children in Need's flagship fundraising campaign. People of all ages are being encouraged to create a challenge inspired by the number 26 and raise money to help children and young people thrive. Whether it's walking 26 miles, learning 26 new words, baking 26 cakes, giving up a favourite treat for 26 days or trying something completely new, the challenge is yours to make your own.

Supporters can also take part in Run with Pudsey and Joe Wicks, which challenges people to walk, run or roll their way to a marathon by completing two miles a day in the two weeks leading up to the BBC Children in Need Appeal on Friday 13 November. Every mile completed and every pound raised will help ensure children and young people have the support they need to thrive.

Joe Wicks said: "I've seen first-hand how much of a difference support and encouragement can make to a young person's life. That's why I'm proud to be part of this year's Appeal and to be championing Run with Pudsey and Joe Wicks. Whether you walk, run or roll, every mile and every donation can help make sure more children have someone by their side when they need it most."

Adding even more colour to this year's campaign, Spice Girl Emma Bunton has designed the charity’s official 2026 T-shirt, drawing inspiration from the bold colours, positivity and playful spirit of the 90s.

Featuring a vibrant, feel-good design with Pudsey at its heart, the limited-edition T-shirt celebrates the same sense of fun, optimism and togetherness that made the Spice Girls a cultural phenomenon. Available exclusively from George at Asda, the T-shirt gives supporters another way to show their support, with proceeds helping fund vital projects for children and young people across the UK.

Emma Bunton said: “BBC Children in Need is a charity that's very close to my heart, so it was a real honour to design this year's official T-shirt. I wanted to create something playful and positive that people would love wearing while supporting such an important cause. The T-shirt brings a sense of fun, and of course there are some nostalgic cheeky nods to the 90s! I hope everyone gets behind the Appeal this year, takes on a challenge and helps make a difference to children and young people across the UK."

Available in yellow and black, the Official BBC Children in Need T-shirt will retail from £4 for children and £10 for adults. The full range has launched exclusively in stores and is also available at George now.

Money raised through the 2026 Appeal will help BBC Children in Need invest in even more positive relationships that strengthen children's wellbeing, build confidence and help them navigate life's challenges.

Claire Hoyle, CEO of BBC Children in Need, said: “Every child deserves someone by their side. Someone who listens. Someone who supports. Someone who believes in them. Across the UK, children and young people are facing growing challenges, but thanks to the generosity of the public, BBC Children in Need funds the trusted adults, youth workers and support services who are there when they need them most. Right now, we can only fund one in six organisations that ask for our help, which is why this year's Appeal is so important. It’s a moment when we can come together as a nation and show children and young people that we’re there for them. Every challenge taken on, every donation and every fundraising effort will help ensure more children have the support, confidence and hope they need to thrive."

* Net of answers Always, Often, Sometimes

** Net of answers Always, Often

*** Net of answers Somewhat disagree, Strongly disagree

The Challenge Squad

As unveiled on The One Show, four inspiring young people are taking on extraordinary personal missions as part of BBC Children in Need’s 2026 fundraising campaign.

Each member of The One Show’s Challenge Squad has received support from charities funded by BBC Children in Need and is now stepping into the spotlight to help ensure there is someone by the side of every child when they need it the most.

16-year-old Zoe from Hampshire will be dancing with the cast of High School Musical on the BBC Children in Need Appeal show on Friday 13 November. Zoe was born with Down syndrome and has been supported by Stepping Stones DS, a charity BBC Children in Need helps to fund, where she has built confidence, developed new skills and formed important friendships.

22-year-old Harri from Surrey who is living with the lasting effects of a brain tumour is preparing to join Radio 2 presenter Owain Wyn Evans during part of the Welsh leg of his 4 Nations Cycle Challenge for BBC Children in Need. Harri, who continues to live with a non-apparent disability that affects his balance, coordination, concentration and energy levels, is a young ambassador for The Brain Tumour Charity, a project supported by BBC Children in Need funding.

16-year-old Ana from Wiltshire was diagnosed as a child with a rare condition which causes her severe pain and has impacted her ability to walk independently. The experience had a huge impact on her confidence and mental wellbeing, taking her away from the active life she loved. With support from Nova Sports, a project part-funded by BBC Children in Need, Ana discovered wheelchair basketball and found a way back into sport. Ana is now taking on a three-day kayaking challenge for BBC Children in Need.

22-year-old Serena from Bristol experienced profound loss at a young age when her brother died. Later, Serena faced further heartbreak when a close childhood friend was killed as a result of knife crime. Serena has been supported by Empire Fighting Chance, a charity part-funded by BBC Children in Need, and is now taking on a high-profile challenge: performing in front of a live studio audience and the millions of viewers who tune into BBC One for the BBC Children in Need Appeal show on Friday 13 November.

The Challenge Squad will be championed by The One Show presenters Alex Jones, Roman Kemp, and BBC Radio 2’s Owain Wyn Evans as they take on their incredible missions to help change young lives across the UK. 

The Big Band Challenge (Morning Live) 

Presenters Michelle Ackerley and Gethin Jones are taking on a new challenge for BBC Children in Need; learning to play an instrument and forming a band so that they can perform for the nation and raise funds for BBC Children in Need.

With just weeks to prepare, the presenters will be taking on music lessons as they attempt to master their chosen instruments and come together as a band.

The challenge is part of BBC Children in Need’s Challenge Yourself 2026 campaign, which encourages people across the UK to take on a challenge inspired by the number 26 and raise money to help ensure every child has someone by their side when they need it most.

From learning something new to taking on a physical challenge, BBC Children in Need is encouraging the nation to get creative and make a challenge their own.

Gethin Jones, Morning Live, Presenter, said: “I’m not sure any of us realised quite what we were signing up for when we agreed to form a band! Learning an instrument is definitely a challenge, we’re going to give it everything we’ve got and hopefully, by the time we perform in front of the nation, we’ll sound something like a band! Most importantly, we’re doing it to raise funds for BBC Children in Need and help make sure children and young people across the UK have someone by their side when they need it most.”

Emma Morris, Executive Editor, Morning Live, says: “Morning Live is all about bringing people together, so taking on a challenge as a team for BBC Children in Need felt like the perfect fit. Learning an instrument, forming a band and performing live in front of the nation is certainly going to push our presenters outside their comfort zones, and we’re expecting plenty of laughs along the way. We can’t wait to see how they progress and, most importantly, to see the incredible support from our viewers as we come together to raise money for children and young people across the UK.”

Claire Hoyle, CEO of BBC Children in Need, says: “We love seeing people across the UK challenge themselves for BBC Children in Need, and the Morning Live team’s musical challenge is a brilliant example of how you can turn trying something new into an opportunity to make a real difference. We’re incredibly grateful to Gethin and Michelle for putting themselves through their paces and helping shine a light on the children and young people who need our support. Every pound raised helps us fund the dedicated people and local organisations who are there for children when life feels tough, providing someone to listen, someone to support and someone to stand alongside them.”

Viewers can follow the Morning Live team as they prepare to take on their musical challenge, with a special performance in front of the nation. With plenty more to learn and practise, there are also a few surprises on the way, with further details of the challenge to be revealed soon.

Owain's 4 Nations Cycle Challenge

Owain Wyn Evans, who presents BBC Radio 2’s Early Breakfast show (weekdays, 4am-6.30am) will take on an epic challenge this November, cycling through all four UK nations in aid of BBC Children in Need.

Owain will take on the greatest distance ever covered in a Radio 2 fundraising challenge. Starting in Glasgow, Owain’s five-day cycle mission begins on Monday 9 November, and sees him pedal nearly 400 miles through Scotland, Northern Ireland, England and his home country of Wales, before his journey reaches a grand finale in central Cardiff on Friday 13 November.

Along the way, he’ll experience and showcase some of the UK’s most spectacular scenery, taking in Scotland’s rugged coastline, Northern Ireland’s lush green landscapes, the historic backdrop of North West England and the rolling hills of Wales.

Owain says: “When I said yes to this challenge, I knew it would push me well outside my comfort zone. It’s going to be tough, demanding and probably a little daunting at times, but I’m ready to give it absolutely everything I’ve got.

“Sara, Paddy and Vernon have achieved some truly extraordinary things for BBC Children in Need over the years, so I’ve got a lot to live up to. Hopefully, I’ll have the incredible support of Radio 2 listeners behind me from start to finish.

“Together, we can make a real difference for children and young people across the UK, helping to make sure they have someone by their side when they need it the most.”

Listeners will be able to follow Owain’s challenge on Radio 2 and BBC Sounds across the week, as his fellow presenters rally behind him during their regular programmes, as well as on Radio 2’s website and social media channels.

Also accompanying Owain on his journey will be a BBC TV crew, who will document his experience for a BBC One film, produced by BBC Studios Entertainment to be broadcast in November.

This is Owain’s second challenge for BBC Children in Need. In his previous role as a BBC weather presenter and following a viral video of him drumming to the BBC News theme tune, Owain took part in BBC Breakfast’s Drumathon in 2021, drumming for 24 hours and raising more than £3.8 million for Children in Need.

Owain’s 4 Nations Cycle Challenge follows Sara Cox’s Great Northern Marathon Challenge in 2025, when she ran, jogged and walked from the Kielder Forest in Northumberland to Pudsey in Leeds, raising an incredible £11.7 million for BBC Children in Need. Sara took on the challenge all while carrying a very special Pudsey backpack, which she will now pass on to Owain.

Sara Cox says: “I want to wish Owain oodles of love and luck for his 4 Nations Cycle Challenge for BBC Children in Need - it’s a once in a lifetime experience that I know he’ll remember and cherish forever. It meant the world to me that millions of our brilliant Radio 2 listeners were supporting me last year and I know they’ll all be rooting for Owain as he pushes up every hill and pedals mile after gruelling mile for BBC Children in Need.”

Prior to Sara’s challenge, Paddy McGuinness completed a brutal 300-mile Ultra Endurance Cycle Challenge in 2024, riding across three nations on a classic Chopper bike, and Vernon Kay took on his Ultra Ultramarathon Challenge, travelling on foot from Leicester’s Victoria Park to Bolton Wanderers’ Toughsheet Community Stadium in 2023.

Leading sports scientist Professor Greg Whyte will be providing bespoke support to help Owain throughout his challenge. Greg has previously supported a huge number of charity challenges including Sara Cox's Great Northern Marathon Challenge in 2025.

JS/HH

Interviews

Alex Jones

What does it mean to you to be part of this year’s Children in Need Appeal show?

It means the absolute world to be part of the team for the big night of Children in Need, I have watched it avidly since I was a little girl and Sir Terry Wogan was at the helm. It was always one of the big highlights of the year. And more recently for me, The One Show has always been very much at the heart of Children in Need, as we will be again this year with our Challenge Squad, so it feels amazing to be there with Pudsey on his big night. 

Why does Children in Need matter?

Children in Need and the money it raises can, and does, change so many children and young adults' lives. I have visited countless projects over the years, and they simply would not exist with the support of Children in Need. Little children, who sometimes have nobody to turn to, are not alone whilst Children in Need exists. It helps young people going through all sorts of difficult things to feel seen and in turn supports parents who are often in despair themselves for all sorts of reasons. The world would be a more hopeless place without Children in Need.

Who's been by your side when you've needed support?

I feel so lucky to have always been supported by amazing parents who continue to be my sounding board, even now. I was also very lucky to have an incredible teacher who helped me to come out of my shell as a young person and changed the course of my life.  

What does ‘being there for someone’ mean to you?

Truly ‘being there for someone’ takes an incredible amount of commitment. For me it means being able to champion that person in all situations, not just when things are good but especially when the chips are down.  It means really listening and being steady when they need someone to cling to. And lastly, patience, sometimes you can only be there quietly and wait for someone to come back to you. 

What was your favourite way to raise money for Children in Need at school?

The Friday of Children in Need week was always one of my favourites at school. There was always a bit of a buzz and things felt a bit anarchic. Throwing wet sponges at the teachers was always a favourite as well as a disco danceathon.

What’s one thing you wish every young person could hear today?

More than anything I wish every young person facing something tough knew they were not alone. There is always someone to turn to and someone will listen, even if they can't solve everything. The world can feel so lonely.  

If you could invent or take on your own ’26 Challenge’ what would it be?

My challenge would be walking around France but being pepped up by having 26 stops at antique markets. 

Which fellow presenter would you trust most to complete a 26-mile walk, and who would you avoid?

I would absolutely trust Sara to complete the challenge, as we know she has form, but because she gave it everything she had last year, I would go for Tyler as he was epic on Race Across The World and so we know he has stamina. I would avoid Rylan; he’s too fabulous to walk and his tan would run.

Why should people get involved this year?

People should always get involved because even a tiny amount of money can help change a young person’s life and it teaches us all a great and important skill: empathy. 

Mel Giedroyc

What does it mean to you to be part of this year’s Children in Need Appeal show?

Being part of Children in Need every year, as I have been for the last 10 years as presenter, which I'm so honoured and privileged to do, is everything to me. It's a red-letter day, and one of the most life affirming and important for me in my calendar.

Why does Children in Need matter?

I think Children in Need is so important because it's something that brings people together in the most brilliant and real way, and it's wonderful to have that atmosphere in the studio with all the fun stuff on stage, but also our audience that come faithfully every year, including so many of people helped by Children in Need, inspired by Children in Need, and also their families. So, it's a very, very special event. 

What was your favourite way to raise money for Children in Need at school?

My favourite way to raise money for Children in Need when I was at school was to make earrings. Now I think about them, they were incredibly bad, but they were quite effective. I used to cut up my Blue Peter annuals (I know… sacrilege) just a couple of pages with the faces of the presenters from the 1980s, such as Simon Groom, Tina Heath, Janet Ellis, and make bits of jewellery out of them. I didn't even have a laminator. 

If you could invent or take on your own ’26 Challenge’ what would it be?

If I could invent my own Children in Need challenge, it would be rather a long and slow one, and it might take a whole year. But I'm prepared to do it. I would do a three-legged - I'm not going to say the word race - I'm going to say the word plod. A three-legged plod with various people being roped up with me. I think it'd be a good thing to do from John O’Groats (obviously) down to Lands’ End (iconic). with different people along the way. So, your Jeanette Cranky up in Scotland, your Alison Hammond in the Midlands down to your Susan Perkins in Cornwall. It's a big project. It would take a year. We'd be very slow.

Which fellow presenter would you trust most to complete a 26-mile walk?

Sara Cox, obviously! I would trust her completely to do a 26-mile walk. She probably does that before breakfast every day, having seen what she did last year, which was sort of superhuman and extraordinary. So yeah, I'd say Cox every time.

What inspires you most about the young people supported by Children in Need?

I can't really put into words how the young people that Children in Need support inspire me. They have grace and real selflessness. Often, I'm sure they're not angels. None of us are, but my goodness they are close to it. They're just very honest and inspiring.  It sounds cliched and maybe overstated, but it's the dignity and bravery that I find so incredibly inspiring. We are living in a self-absorbed time of our evolution and these young people just transcend all of that with grace, humility and dignity - qualities which are often found lacking today. 

What are you most looking forward to on Appeal Night?

I can't wait for Appeal Night. It's full of adrenaline, excitement, joy, laughter and tears. There is always a great gang in the studio, but the wonderful audience that come in faithfully every year really make it special. There are always lots of supporters of Children in Need who come to watch as well as lots of kids who have been helped by Children in Need that come in too. It's a wonderful, unique and energised evening. I'm so looking forward to it.

Rylan

What does it mean to you to be part of this year’s Children in Need Appeal show?

⁠It's amazing to be part of Children in Need’s appeal show, obviously it’s something that I have grown up watching and loved and have been involved in in the past, so to be asked to host this year is a real honour.  

Why does Children in Need matter?

Children in Need matters because unfortunately, the title still stands - there are a lot of children that are still in need and we need to do our bit to make sure no child goes without the love and care that they deserve. 

Who's been by your side when you've needed support?

I have been very, very lucky that I have great family and friends around me and they have very much been there every time I’ve needed them and it’s just a reminder that not everyone has that, especially the children that the charity helps.  

Who was your biggest champion growing up and what impact did they have on your life?

My biggest champion growing up was my mum. She has always looked after me and made sure I could do what I wanted to do (within reason!). The impact that support has had on my life has turned me into the person I am today. 

What does ‘being there for someone’ mean to you?

⁠Being there for someone doesn’t necessarily mean being in front of them all the time. It can be simply knowing that they will always be on the other end of the phone when you need help, showing up when you need them and also being happy for you when something amazing happens. That's when you know that you have got someone that's there for you.  

What was your favourite way to raise money for Children in Need at school?

My favourite way to raise money for Children in Need at school was donut sales, and any leftover donuts we got to eat, so that was quite exciting!

What’s one thing you wish every young person could hear today?

⁠The one thing I wish that every young person could hear today would be to try and enjoy these years, things might feel hard, but when you grow up, you’ll look back and appreciate those younger years so much.  

If you could invent or take on your own ’26 Challenge’ what would it be?

I would take on a 26-day spa holiday for everyone. I would take one for the team and people can sponsor me to do it!

Which fellow presenter would you trust most to complete a 26-mile walk, and who would you avoid?

I would probably avoid Alex Jones because we would stop off at every pub along the way! 

What inspires you most about the young people supported by Children in Need?

So many things inspire me about the young people supported by Children in Need! Witnessing lives being changed by the money that the public raise each year, and how grateful these children are for the Charity, it's incredibly inspiring seeing the things they go on to do.

Why should people get involved this year?

People should get involved this year for the exact same reasons they should get involved every year! There are still children in need and all the money raised is going to help so many amazing people and projects. 

What would you say to anyone thinking about taking on a challenge and raising money this year?

⁠If you’re taking on a challenge I wish you all the best! I have done one myself so I know how tough they can be but the reward at the end of it is completely worth it.

Sara Cox

What does it mean to you to be part of this year’s Children in Need Appeal show?

It’s a huge honour to be part of the 2026 Children in Need hosting team. It promises to be a spectacular night, that will hopefully raise oodles and oodles of cash for much needed projects. And after completing my Children in Need Ultramarathon Challenge for Radio 2 last year, it will be quite nice to be somewhere warm and cosy and close to the event, instead of running in sideways rain! 

Why does Children in Need matter?

Children in Need matters so much because the money raised by them goes to so many incredible projects. You will find Children in Need projects within a couple of miles of any doorstep across the UK. The funds raised go to everyone from young carers, children struggling with grief, children’s hospices – anything you can think of, Children in Need are there. 

Who's been by your side when you've needed support?

I have lots of lovely friends who are always by my side. But I am very lucky to have my best friend Clare, who has been with me through thick and thin and knows me better than anyone. To have such a strong friend by my side means the world and makes me feel very lucky.

Who was your biggest champion growing up and what impact did they have on your life?

My biggest champion growing up, although I didn’t realise it at the time, was my Mum. She taught me to work hard, to treat people well and to try your best.

What’s one thing you wish every young person could hear today?

The one thing I would say to all young people today is to not lose hope, to believe in themselves and that their opinion matters. They’ve got to have ambition – especially young girls – and believe in their future. It’s important to work hard but always to make space for friendship and for the people that you love.

If you could invent or take on your own ’26 Challenge’ what would it be?

If I could come up with a 26 Challenge for myself to do, it would involve my horse, Nelly. But I doubt I’d be allowed to do that, and doubt people would donate much money just to watch me happily trotting around. Anything involving my horse or my three dogs I’m there. 

What are you most looking forward to on the big night itself?

On the big night I am most excited about seeing the money roll in! Obviously, it’s going to be an excellent night of entertainment, there will be some great laughs and lots of emotional moments. I’m sure it’s going to be a bit of a rollercoaster. But I cannot wait to see the Great British public get together like they do every year and raise money for some children and young people who need it. I can’t wait.

Tyler West

What does it mean to you to be part of this year’s Children in Need Appeal show?

Being part of Children in Need this year means everything to me! I never felt that I had a voice when I was younger, so the fact I can be part of such a special cause, helping other young people find theirs, means the world. I grew up watching this show every year with my family through so many moments in my life. It was a must watch and so without a doubt one of the biggest honours of my life so far. It isn’t a just a job, it’s a special moment to celebrate and support young people across the UK. 

Why does Children in Need matter?

Young people today have so much more on their shoulders, the world can be a bizarre place, and it isn’t easy. Every young person deserves to have someone in their corner, or even a voice just to say, “you got this”. Children In Need helps support incredible organisations that are there for young people when they need it the most, so having that respite, whether it be a person, or a place they can go to or even an opportunity so they can feel achievement, it can completely change the outcome of someone’s life.

Who's been by your side when you've needed support?

I feel so blessed to have family that love me, friends that stick by me and my partner Molly, who is my best friend. I wouldn’t have done as much, or be where I am today, without them. They can be the strength when you’re feeling low, but also the reminder to keep going. I’ve learnt on my own journey the importance of not shutting down and closing off to the world.  

Who was your biggest champion growing up and what impact did they have on your life?

My family were my biggest champions. My brother guided me and was my voice when I was shy and scared of the world. My Nanna would build me up with confidence with any task I completed making me feel like I was champion of the world – and my mum taught me resilience to keep on going no matter how wrong things can go, everything would be OK. I think young people deserve to feel that they matter. 

What does ‘being there for someone’ mean to you?

It can come in a variety of ways, from an honest check-in to see how they are, to showing up when it matters the most or just to be there as a ‘just in case’. Ultimately, it’s to not feel that you are alone. Being there for people doesn’t mean grand gestures and endless effort - sometimes it’s the small things, just a bit of time and thought. 

What was your favourite way to raise money for Children in Need at school?

We opened up a school carwash and I tell you what - it was a game changer. All the teachers were suddenly very friendly (probably because they didn’t want anything to happen to their car!). It was so much fun to see how everyone was coming up with different ideas, big or small. Now I’m older, I see just how much those donations make a difference. 

What’s one thing you wish every young person could hear today?

One thing I always say is ‘where you started does not determine where you end up’. Sometimes life deals you a difficult start, or a tough journey along the way - that is part of it. You have the opportunity to use it as your fuel to drive you to where you want to be and who you want to be. Bad things can happen so that good things can fall in to place, and if you attack your fears bit by bit, on the other side of it is a whole other world.  

If you could invent your own ’26 Challenge’ what would it be?

I’d probably bite off more than I can chew with 26 challenges in 26 hours! It’d probably consist of me pushing my fitness to the limit, climbing a mountain, whilst DJ’ing and doing burpees. One thing about me is if I set my mind to something, I’ll get it done!  

Which fellow presenter would you trust most to complete a 26-mile walk, and who would you avoid?

I need someone to talk consistently throughout the whole thing and make me laugh through the pain, so Mel or Rylan would be great. Alex Jones’ voice keeps me calm so maybe everyone can tag team along!

What inspires you most about the young people supported by Children in Need?

They are a breath of fresh air. They are a true example of resilience. There are so many stories of young people that have gone through things that most people go a whole lifetime without experiencing. But they still show up, put on a brave face and keep it stepping. Everyone goes ‘young people are the future’, no - go and speak to them, they’re doing amazing things right now. 

Why should people get involved this year?

Children In Need has the access and reach to so many opportunities and incredible organisations. The money raised not only makes a difference expanding that but means we can reach even more young people. That money makes such a difference. More than ever there’s so many ways to get involved, at work, at home, with friends. If everyone does just one little thing, whether it be participating in a challenge, spreading the word or making a donation - it’s another young person’s life changed.  

What are you most looking forward to on Appeal night?

THE ENERGY! To have the nation rallying behind a night dedicated to young people will be a proper pinch yourself moment for me. The show has become a household tradition and I’m so excited for that to continue. There’s going to be out of this world performances, chaos, surprises. Everyone is going to feel every single emotion and that’s really special. Also, LIVE TV! What could go wrong?! 

What would you say to anyone thinking about taking on a challenge and raising money this year?

If you’re thinking about a challenge or raising money you are halfway there. Whatever you contribute, big or small you are helping something much bigger. You should be so proud.

Follow for more