A Staffordshire-based charity has been named a winner at the 2026 Smiley Charity Film Awards, with Staffordshire Women’s Aid taking home the award in the £1 - £2.5 million income category for its film Celebrating 50 Years of Staffordshire Women’s Aid.
The Smiley Charity Film Awards celebrate the most powerful and impactful cause-based films across the UK and internationally. Now in its ninth year, and powered by the positive news platform Smiley Movement, the awards champion storytelling that moves people to take action.
The Awards are recognised by both the British Film Institute and IMDb, and have become a global platform for purpose-driven storytelling. Over the past nine years, the awards have generated more than 400 million film viewings on its website, with over 3 million people tuning into its virtual events and over 3 million people tuning in online globally.
A total of 29 winners have been awarded £101,000 in prize funding, with category winners, including Staffordshire Women’s Aid, each receiving £3,000.
Nicolas Loufrani, CEO of The Smiley Company & Founder of the Smiley Movement, said;
“Every year, these awards prove just how powerful storytelling can be when it’s driven by purpose. These films don’t just raise awareness, they inspire action, shift perceptions and ultimately help charities reach the people who need them most. This year’s winners are a reminder that creativity can be a force for real change, and we’re proud to support the incredible organisations behind them.”
Staffordshire Women’s Aid supports individuals and families affected by domestic abuse, offering a wide range of services including a 24-hour helpline, refuge accommodation, sexual assault and abuse support, therapeutic counselling and community-based services. Their work empowers victims to become survivors and supports them in building safer, independent lives free from violence and abuse.
For nearly 50 years, the charity has played a vital role across the region, supporting thousands of people and working alongside communities to drive lasting change.
Celebrating 50 Years of Staffordshire Women’s Aid is a powerful and reflective film that charts the charity’s journey from its grassroots beginnings in 1976 to the present day.
Through key moments in history, from the 1980s through to the modern day, the film highlights the evolution of the charity’s work and the ongoing need for its services. It pays tribute to the women who founded the organisation, the staff and supporters who have carried its mission forward, and the courage of survivors who have shared their stories.
By combining historical context with present-day realities, the film underlines both the progress made and the urgent need for continued support for those affected by domestic abuse.
About the awards:
Selected from more than 500 entries, this year’s 200 finalists represented causes ranging from mental health and homelessness to disability inclusion, youth services and international development.
Finalists included 155 national charities alongside a strong cohort of regional organisations from across the UK, including London, as well as entries from countries including India, Palestine, South Africa, Sri Lanka and Uganda.
Categories are structured by annual income, ensuring charities of all sizes have an equal opportunity to be recognised. All People’s Choice winners are decided by a public vote whilst the Film of the Year and category winners were decided by a panel of over 40 industry judges from the world of charity, film, business and entertainment.
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