Every child deserves to feel safe, supported, and seen – especially when facing the unimaginable challenges of serious illness. That’s the spirit behind the Health and Wellbeing Award. This award celebrates individuals or teams who go above and beyond to improve the health and wellbeing of children and young people, whether in schools, hospitals, or the wider community.
This year, the award goes to the incredible Team Jak Foundation – a group whose compassion, creativity, and commitment have touched countless lives across Scotland.
The judging panel was deeply moved by the breadth of support Team Jak offers to children and families affected by childhood cancer and bereavement.
“We recognise the full range of services the Team Jak Foundation provides,” the judges shared, “and we were especially struck by the appreciation expressed by Health Play Teams in both Glasgow and Edinburgh for their collaboration.”
From Jak’s Den HQ in Livingston to pop-up Dens in Glasgow, Fife, and Aberdeen, Team Jak creates safe, joyful spaces where children can simply be children. Their CYP (Children and Young People) team delivers emotional and social support through crafts, games, music therapy, and counselling—tailored to each child’s needs and stage of treatment.
Allison Barr, who nominated the team and leads with heart and humility, reflected on what makes their work so special.
“Seeing the smiles on our children, young people and adults’ faces when they’re having a tough time, then engage in one of our Team Jak events and feel like they’re ‘normal’ again – even for a little while – that’s the best part.”
One parent’s heartfelt words say it all:
“I don’t think Team Jak will ever truly know how amazing they are… They understand every child, sibling and parent’s unique way of coping. We so wish we could have met Jak – a 15-year-old who envisioned all that Team Jak is while going through his own journey. Just inspirational.”
This award is especially meaningful for Team Jak as they celebrate their tenth year. “We’ve been finalists many times,” Allison shared, “but this is our first win – and it means the world.”
She also paid tribute to the team behind the magic: Coordinators Colette, Chloe, Aimee, Tiffeny, play support worker Rachel, and volunteers like Hannah.
“To our Board of Trustees, our families, our supporters – and most of all, to my inspirational son Jak. Without his vision, none of this would exist.”
Jak’s legacy lives on in every smile, every moment of joy, and every child who feels just a little less alone. And thanks to Team Jak, those moments are happening every day.
Congratulations to Team Jak Foundation – your warmth, resilience, and love are lighting the way.
About the Scottish Children’s Health Awards
The Scottish Children’s Health Awards celebrate the people and projects making a real difference in the lives of children and young people living with health conditions. Each award winner is announced during Scottish Children’s Health Week (1–7 September)—a week dedicated to raising awareness of children’s health rights, sharing inspiring stories, and promoting self-management, play, and wellbeing.
Join Us
Be part of the movement to defend children’s health rights. Explore the week’s activities, read more award stories, and share your own messages of support using #MyHealthMyRights and #SCHW2025. Whether you’re a parent, professional, young person, or supporter—your voice matters.
Visit https://www.childrenshealthscotland.org/events/scottish-childrens-health-week/ to learn more, download resources, and discover how you can take part in Scottish Children’s Health Week.
Want to Nominate for 2026?
You can nominate now for our 2026 by clicking HERE.
