Looking Back, Moving Forward: Whizz Kidz End Of Year Reflections
An honest reflection on the past year at Whizz Kidz
As we come to the end of another year, it feels right to pause, reflect and be honest about what the past twelve months have meant for Whizz Kidz.
Like many charities across the UK, this year has not been an easy one. Rising costs, increasing demand and financial pressures have tested us in ways we couldn’t have predicted. But if there is one thing this year has reinforced, it is just how deeply committed our community is, and how determined we are to continue supporting young wheelchair users, no matter the challenges.
A Year of Challenge and Courage
We won’t shy away from the reality: this has been a particularly hard year for Whizz Kidz. The decision to close our waitlist was one of the most difficult moments we have faced ever as a charity.
Across the UK, many children have had to continue to wait for the essential mobility equipment they need to play, learn, explore, and take part in everyday life. The closure of our waitlist has had a significant impact on young wheelchair users and their families. For children, this has meant delayed independence, missed opportunities to keep up with friends, and limited participation at home, at school, and in their communities. For families, it has brought ongoing uncertainty and difficult decisions as they try to support their child without the right equipment.
It has also affected us not only as a charity, but on a deeply personal level. Every member of our team comes to work because they care about young wheelchair users and their families, and knowing that there were children we could not immediately support weighed heavily on us all.
At the same time, demand for our services has never been greater. This year alone, we have supported hundreds of young wheelchair users with vital, life-changing equipment - helping children and young people gain independence, confidence and freedom.
Moments That Reminded Us Why We Do This
Even in a tough year, there have been powerful highlights that reminded us why Whizz Kidz exists and what we can achieve together.
Our BBC Radio 4 Appeal was a defining moment. Hearing our story shared nationally on International Wheelchair Day and seeing the response that followed - brought incredible awareness to the challenges young wheelchair users face every day, as well as the impact of the work we do.
The London Marathon was another unforgettable highlight. Over 400 incredible runners took to the streets of London on our behalf, filling the city with determination, generosity and Whizz Kidz spirit. Their efforts raised vital funds and sent a clear message: young wheelchair users matter.
Thanks to the generous support of several local trusts and foundations, we are delighted to expand access to our services and now accept applications for wheelchairs and equipment in selected regions across the UK. In particular, the Steve Morgan Foundation’s £750,000 grant over three years is enabling us to fund vital clinical services for young people across Merseyside, North Wales, West Cheshire, and North Shropshire.
Equally important has been the growth of young voices within Whizz Kidz. This year saw our Youth Board expand and the introduction of our Collective — a group of younger wheelchair users who help guide our messaging, shape our priorities and ensure that the work we do truly reflects the needs and experiences of those we exist to serve. Their insight, honesty and passion continue to inspire us every day.
The Power of Public Support
While closing our waitlist was incredibly difficult, it also shone a light on the compassion and generosity of the public. The launch of our appeal led to national coverage across BBC, Sky News and many other outlets, giving us an unprecedented platform to share our story.
Being chosen as the charity partner for the Express Christmas Appeal was another moment of pride. It allowed us not only to highlight the urgent need for our services, but also to celebrate the incredible young wheelchair users we support — their resilience, ambition and determination.
As one parent told us, “Without Whizz Kidz, my child wouldn’t have the independence they have today. This charity changes lives every single day.”
We have been truly blown away by the response. The kindness, donations and messages of support we received reminded us that we are not alone in this mission. While we’re not quite where we need to be yet, we are hopeful and determined that we will be able to reopen our waitlist soon.
Looking Ahead with Hope
As we look toward 2026, we do so with optimism and ambition. There is still so much to do, but there is also so much to be hopeful for.
We remain unwavering in our mission. Whizz Kidz is here for the 75,000 young wheelchair users across the UK who too often face barriers to independence and opportunity. We provide life‑changing mobility equipment, build skills and confidence, and campaign for a more accessible society. Our purpose is simple and powerful: to make sure no young wheelchair user is left behind.
Every child deserves the chance to move freely, grow in confidence and live the life they choose.
Thank you - to our supporters, fundraisers, partners, volunteers, staff and, most importantly, the young people and families who inspire us every single day. Your belief in Whizz Kidz keeps us moving forward.
Together, we will continue to push for change. Together, we will keep showing what’s possible. And together, we will enter the next year ready to make an even bigger difference.
