Whizz Kidz shortlisted for Prestigious DRUM Award

Whizz Kidz, the UK’s leading charity dedicated to improving mobility for young people, was shortlisted for a DRUM Award in the Social Purpose: Integrated Campaign - Not For Profit category. The campaign developed in collaboration with Gusto and Manifest agencies, ‘Real Difference,’ sheds light on the everyday challenges and triumphs of young people with mobility issues, showcasing the transformative impact that the right wheelchair at the right time can make in a young person’s life.  

With over 75,000 young people facing mobility challenges across the UK, Whizz Kidz understands the need for awareness that is not only informative but relatable. The campaign broke new ground by featuring a real Whizz Kid navigating an everyday milestone moment. By focusing on a relatable experience, the campaign invited audiences to see beyond disability and recognise the familiar life aspirations shared by all young people. 

“The Real Difference campaign was a first of its kind for Whizz Kidz and a powerful step forward for our brand," said Tamsin Haines, Senior Brand Marketing Manager at Whizz Kidz. “Our work is about more than providing equipment—it’s about providing freedom, confidence, and possibilities for young people. This campaign captured that spirit beautifully.” 

Supported by comprehensive insights, strategic development, and creative execution, the campaign spanned a range of media including a hero digital ad, cutdowns, audio and print ads, and a detailed toolkit to guide messaging for social media and email assets. Garnering over 1 million views across platforms, the campaign drove a 22% increase in website traffic and achieved a 9.1% rise in online donations, underscoring the public’s response to Whizz Kidz’s powerful message. 

Through heartfelt storytelling, Whizz Kidz and its partners communicated a simple truth: the freedom to move is something everyone deserves but often take for granted. The Real Difference campaign not only highlighted the charity’s impact but created a new understanding of the challenges young people with mobility issues face, with a vision to create a more inclusive society. 

Sarah Pugh, CEO of Whizz Kidz, commented, “Being shortlisted for the DRUM Award for Social Purpose is a tremendous honour and a testament to the dedication of everyone involved in creating the 'Real Difference' campaign. We’re immensely grateful to our partners Gusto and Manifest for their incredible insights and support in bringing this vision to life. Together, we’ve shone a light on the realities faced by young people with mobility issues and the crucial role Whizz Kidz plays in changing lives. This recognition fuels our mission to continue making a real difference, one wheelchair at a time.” 

Whizz Kidz is a national charity that provides disabled children and young people with vital mobility equipment, opportunities to meet and have fun, and training to help them gain skills and look forward to a bright future. 

For Media enquiries, please contact Senior Media & PR Manager Andie Hill at a.hill@whizz-kidz.org.uk / 07776956062