The Duke of Sussex is to return to Britain in September for the first time since he lost his security appeal.
He will come to London to attend a charity event on Sept 8, the third anniversary of the death of Queen Elizabeth II.
The Duke is to present a prize and deliver a speech at the WellChild Awards, which celebrates the lives, families and carers of children with serious illness. He has attended the awards 14 times since becoming patron of the charity 17 years ago.
His last visit to Britain was in May when he lost his appeal against the Home Office’s decision to downgrade his police protection in the UK.
At that point, he spoke of his hopes of reconciling with the Royal family, and his chief communications officer met the King’s press secretary over the summer.
Prince Harry is returning to the UK from his home in California, where he was pictured surfing in a video posted to social media by his wife Meghan
The Duke’s brief return to Britain, which is expected to include other meetings and charity visits, will raise questions about whether he will meet the King.
The Duchess of Sussex and their children, Prince Archie, six, and Princess Lilibet, four, are not expected to join him. He said in May that he “can’t see a world” in which he could bring them to the UK because of the loss of security cover.
In 2022, the Duke cancelled his appearance at the WellChild Awards as it became clear his grandmother was seriously ill. He flew to Balmoral, arriving shortly after the late Queen had died.
At this year’s awards, he is scheduled to spend time with each winner and their families at a pre-ceremony reception before presenting the Award for Inspirational Child (aged 4-6) and delivering a speech.
Prince Harry said that he is “always privileged to attend the WellChild Awards and meet the incredible children, families and professionals who inspire us with all their strength and spirit”.
The Duke, pictured at a High Court hearing in April, has attended most of the annual WellChild ceremonies since becoming the charity’s patron 17 years ago – Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images
He said: “For 20 years these awards have highlighted the courage of young people living with complex health needs and shone a light on the devoted caregivers – family and professionals – who support them every step of the way.
“Their stories remind us of the power of compassion, connection and community.”
Matt James, the WellChild chief executive, said: “We are excited to celebrate the 20th WellChild Awards, in association with GSK… Behind each winner’s story is a network of extraordinary people who go above and beyond every single day.
“The WellChild Awards give us the opportunity to recognise and celebrate the resilience of these remarkable children and young people and the commitment of those around them.”
