Why Prince Harry says UK return is 'true privilege' even as family tensions remain strained

As royal watchers continue to eagerly await the return of Prince Harry on his upcoming UK trip to the WellChild Awards on September 30, already several details have begun to trickle out about the upcoming engagement including the absence of wife Meghan Markle - as well as speculation about whether a meeting could be in order between the Duke and his father King Charles.

Yet while the solo engagement will see Harry without his support network at his side to cheer him on at the all important event, the Prince has shown no hint of hesitation or apprehension about his return, despite having previously cited security concerns over his lack of police protection while visiting the country.

Instead, the Prince is firmly looking towards the WellChild awards, an event very near and dear to his heart, both as a father of two young children and as the patron of the charity behind the awards themselves. The UK based charity offers support for families of seriously ill children, and remains one of the few causes that the Duke of Sussex has continued to support even despite stepping back from duties as a working royal back in 2020, when he moved along with his young family to Montecito, California.

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Speaking about his excitement to be championing such a brilliant cause for yet another year, Harry said in a statement that he is “honoured” to celebrate “the remarkable courage and achievements of children living with complex medical needs”.

“These incredible young people, along with the dedicated caregivers, nurses, and professionals who tirelessly support them, inspire us all. It is a true privilege to recognise such extraordinary individuals," he added.

The annual awards event celebrates the inspirational qualities of children and young people living with serious illnesses or complex medical needs and also celebrates the dedicated love and support of those close to them or who care for them.

As a proud supporter of the charity for 16 years, Harry is also no stranger to attending the lavish galas, and regularly commits to spending meaningful time with the children themselves and their families and carers, as well as giving a speech. This year in particular, Harry is set to present the Award for Inspirational Child (aged 4-6), an especially poignant moment, as his own son Prince Archie is five years old himself.

Although Prince Harry ’s attendance at the WellChild Awards has been confirmed, it remains to be seen whether he will be able to meet with his father King Charles and brother Prince William, while visiting the UK.

Tensions between the royals have remained at an all time high for several months, but did appear to soften this week when King Charles, Prince William and Kate Middleton all shared posts on social media to wish the Duke a happy birthday when he turned 40 on September 15.