STVA grand total of £2,539,500 has been raised by the STV Children’s Appeal throughout 2026.
A live STV show presented on Friday by Lorraine Kelly put its life-changing work in the spotlight.
The much-loved presenter hosted from STV’s Glasgow headquarters and celebrated a jam-packed year of fundraising for the Appeal, which supports the children and families across Scotland who need it most.
Viewers were treated to a special performance from Fife-born singer-songwriter and rising UK music force, Cammy Barnes, who was joined on stage by two projects supported by the Appeal: Port Glasgow’s Riverside Youth Band and a choir from Grangemouth’s Young Portonian Theatre Company.
STVIn a touching gesture, Cammy has extended an invitation to the children’s choir to join him on stage at one of two sold-out concerts at Glasgow’s OVO Hydro arena in April next year. It’s a significant opportunity for the group, whose next concert is an Alice in Wonderland pantomime in Grangemouth Town Hall.
Cammy said: “Getting to perform with the Young Portonians choir for the STV Children’s Appeal was such a special experience. They’re an incredible group of young people and I was absolutely blown away by their talent and enthusiasm.
“I had such a brilliant time singing with them that I thought, why not do it again? Playing the Hydro next April is going to be one of the biggest nights of my life, and being able to share a wee part of that with them will make it even more special. I can’t wait to have them up on that stage with me. It’s going to be a moment none of us will forget!”
Friday’s programme also highlighted three other Scottish projects that have received support from the STV Children’s Appeal: Rothesay’s Achievement Bute, Moray-based Step by Step, and Edinburgh’s Very Inclusive Play Club.
The live show topped off a day of fundraising activity across various STV platforms. On STV Radio, the regular Friday schedule was ripped up and replaced by guest appearances from celebrity Appeal supporters, including a live DJ set from comedian Karen Dunbar.
The Scottish Government has supported the STV Children’s Appeal since its inception in 2011 by providing up to £1m of funding annually.
First Minister John Swinney said: “For 15 years, the STV Children’s Appeal has brought people together from across Scotland to make a real difference to the lives of children and families. Ending child poverty is a national mission and I am proud that the Scottish Government continues to back the Appeal and the vital work it delivers in communities across the country.
“I thank the people of Scotland for their generous support, and the many other organisations and individuals who support the work of the Appeal. Together we can secure a brighter future for Scotland’s children and young people.”
Rufus Radcliffe, STV CEO and Appeal Trustee, added: “What an incredible day we’ve had at STV HQ celebrating a successful year of fundraising for the STV Children’s Appeal. The stories that we’ve heard throughout the day on STV Radio and on the live show with Lorraine on STV have demonstrated the life-changing impact these funds have right across the country.
“Our brilliant final total is a result of the collective efforts of our viewers, community fundraisers, and partners who all share our passion and commitment to improving the lives of children and families in Scotland. Thank you – we simply could not do this without your support.”
You can donate to the STV Children’s Appeal 2026 by visiting stv.tv/appeal. Watch the show on STV Player.
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