Prior’s Court’s emotional short film, “The Long Road; Stories of love, hope and autistic young people with complex needs”, has won two awards at the Smiley Charity Film Awards 2026.

The film, which explores the challenges, perseverance and love that shape the lives of autistic young people with complex needs supported by Prior's Court, was recognised in the “Longform Over £5 Million” category - a category grouped by charity turnover and so featured major national organisations.

At the online awards ceremony on Wednesday, 29 April, The Long Road received the Gold Award as the expert judges’ overall winner in its category. The expert judge described the film as:

raw, honest and arresting - a superb film that highlights a truly important cause

In addition, the film was awarded Bronze in the People’s Choice section of the same category, based on the number of public votes received. This recognition reflects the strong support shown by the community and supporters who shared and championed the film.

The category placed Prior’s Court alongside large charities including Greenpeace UK, Dementia UK and the RSPB, making the achievement particularly significant.

About the film

“The Long Road; Stories of love, hope and autistic young people with complex needs” features current Prior’s Court young person Zac, alongside alumni Peter and Jenny, and their families.

Read Peter's mum's experience of making the film

The film highlights the experiences of families before a child joins Prior’s Court, including the challenges they face in accessing appropriate support. It also reflects the ongoing concerns families hold about adulthood and long-term outcomes for young people with complex needs.

Jenny and Peter’s families talk about how their children’s lives were transformed in their time at Prior’s Court, setting them up for fulfilling and happy adulthoods – but also presenting a nuanced picture that SEN families still must fight for their children throughout their entire lives.

Read Jenny's dad's experiences

Wider impact

The film has already been viewed more than 200,000 times online.

Dan Whiteway, Marketing and Communications Manager at Prior's Court, said: "Winning a Charity Film Awards means the message behind this film will be heard by even more people. Thank you to the Charity Film Awards scheme for providing a platform for charities to share their vital work.

"This film focuses on Prior’s Court and how the impact the work we do empowers autistic young people with complex needs for the rest of their lives. But the wider point isn’t that Prior’s Court and our approach is the only solution – it is that the right support, in the right place at the right time for young people like those at Prior’s Court provides a lifelong impact that benefits everyone. 

"A massive thank you to everyone who voted in the People’s Choice category and helped share these important stories. 

“Our thanks to the families of Zac, Peter and Jenny for sharing their stories, to The Linden Allotment and JubyLee Bakes for allowing us to film at their sites, and to SubMotion Productions, the videographers who brought this story to life so vividly and passionately.”

Learn about other Prior's Court families' experiences