A Huddersfield charity has received national recognition for its storytelling, winning a top prize at the 2026 Smiley Charity Film Awards. Ruddi’s Retreat secured the Gold award in the £250,000 to £500,000 income category for its Christmas campaign, which was produced in collaboration with Sam Teale Productions based in nearby Cleckheaton.
The award-winning film highlights the vital support the local charity provides to families affected by childhood cancer, life-limiting illnesses, and bereavement. By operating five specially adapted caravans in Filey and Blackpool, the organisation offers free holiday breaks to families during some of their most challenging times. The charity’s work ensures that families have a place to find moments of joy and relief beyond their active medical treatment.
The Smiley Charity Film Awards, now in their ninth year, are recognised by the British Film Institute and IMDb for showcasing purpose-driven stories. As a category winner, the charity has been awarded £3,000 to further its mission. Nicolas Loufrani, founder of the Smiley Movement, noted that these films are essential for inspiring action and helping charities connect with those who need their services most.
The charity was founded in 2011 by Ali Waterworth after her son, Ruddi Waterworth-Jones, was diagnosed with cancer at six months old. The vision for the organisation was to provide the same type of supportive, homely retreat that her family relied on during their own experience with serious illness. The recent national success highlights the lasting impact of this Huddersfield-based initiative, which continues to support families throughout their journey from diagnosis to remission and bereavement.
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