UCLH child sexual abuse service named overall winner at national care awards

A specialist London service supporting children and young people after sexual abuse has received the highest honour at the 2026 Picker Experience Network Awards.

The Lighthouse, run by University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, was named the awards’ overall winner for its child-centred and trauma-informed approach. It also won the categories for joined-up care and long-term improvements in people’s experience of care.

Established in 2018 as England’s first Child House, the service brings physical and mental healthcare, safeguarding, advocacy and criminal justice support together in one safe setting. This coordinated approach reduces the number of times children must repeat or relive their experiences when seeking help.

The Lighthouse works with the Metropolitan Police and NSPCC and primarily supports children and young people from five north central London boroughs. More than 3,000 children and families have received help since it opened.

Judges highlighted the service’s compassionate, joined-up care and its commitment to involving children in how support is designed. The Government has previously announced plans to extend the Child House model to every NHS region in England, supported by investment of up to £50 million.

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