Candlelighters, the renowned children’s cancer charity, has been named Children’s Charity of the Year at the Yorkshire Children of Courage Awards, an event that celebrates the bravery of young individuals and the charities that support them.
The prestigious awards, established in 2011, recognise courageous children and young adults from across Yorkshire, along with the organisations that stand by them in their most challenging moments. For nearly five decades, Candlelighters has been a pillar of support for children and families in the region, helping them navigate the devastating journey of childhood cancer.
From hospital wards to home care, the charity provides a comprehensive range of services, including financial assistance, emotional support, and funding for critical cancer research aimed at improving the lives of young cancer patients. Thousands of families have benefited from Candlelighters’ unwavering dedication during some of the most difficult times in their lives.
The nomination for the award came from Emma Sutcliffe, a mother from Ilkley, who experienced Candlelighters’ support firsthand when her 17-year-old son, diagnosed with a rare and aggressive cancer, received their help. Emma described the charity’s services as a lifeline, offering not just practical support, but emotional warmth and understanding during their darkest days.
In her nomination, Emma wrote, “Candlelighters work tirelessly to give families like mine support, precious family experiences, and moments when time is running out. The Square, their family support centre, is the most wonderful environment, offering a much-needed respite from the clinical environment of the hospital. The charity’s staff provide care, therapy, and smiles, creating a sanctuary that offers both comfort and hope. It’s hard to put into words the impact Candlelighters has had on our family, but we are forever grateful.”
In addition to Candlelighters receiving the award, several young individuals supported by the charity were also recognised at the awards.
12-year-old Elliot Gunn from Halifax was awarded the Fantastic Fundraiser award after raising nearly £30,000 for the charity through his fundraising team. Seven-year-old Theo Hampson from Hull, who is undergoing treatment for acute lymphoblastic leukaemia, was named Sporting Superstar in the Under 10 category. 11-year-old Lola Pinder from Leeds, who was diagnosed with medulloblastoma, won Sporting Superstar in the 11 to 18 category. Meanwhile, 16-year-old Bethany Martin from York, who is battling acute lymphoblastic leukaemia, received the Beyond Bravery award for her remarkable resilience.
Emily Wragg, CEO of Candlelighters, expressed her pride in receiving the award, recognising the collective efforts of the staff, volunteers, and supporters who make the charity’s vital work possible. She said, “This award is a recognition of the incredible courage shown by children and families and the dedication of our staff and supporters. We are honoured to be trusted by families to support them through childhood cancer, and we will continue to work tirelessly to help those in need.”
The award underscores Candlelighters’ ongoing commitment to supporting families across Yorkshire affected by childhood cancer, providing a beacon of hope for those in the most trying of circumstances. To find out more about Candlelighters and their work, you can visit their website: Candlelighters – Fighting Children’s Cancer