Prince Harry is preparing for his first trip back to Britain since losing his court battle over state-funded security.
The Duke of Sussex will return on September 8 for the WellChild Awards, a cause he has supported for nearly 20 years. His visit is already sparking speculation about whether it could open the door to long-awaited family reconciliation.
Harry has confirmed his attendance at the ceremony, where he will meet children, families, and caregivers, and present the award for the most inspirational child aged four to six. Speaking about the event, he praised “the power of compassion, connection and community,” The Times reported.
Although he is expected to attend alone—without Meghan Markle, Prince Archie, or Princess Lilibet—his remarks about family have added significance to this trip.
Security Dispute and Family Strain
Earlier this year, Harry’s legal challenge to restore police protection in the U.K. was rejected. Following the ruling, he told the BBC the situation had created a rift with his father. “My father won’t speak to me because of this security stuff. But it would be nice to reconcile,” he said.
Reflecting on the impact of the decision, Harry added: “I can’t see a world in which I would be bringing my wife and children back to the U.K. at this point. And the things that they’re going to miss are, well, everything. You know, I love my country. I have always done, despite what some people in that country have done… I think that it’s really quite sad that I won’t be able to show my children my homeland.”
Signs of a Thaw in Relations
In July, two of Harry’s advisers were seen meeting with King Charles’ communications team, prompting speculation that quiet efforts toward reconciliation may be underway. Still, it remains unclear if the King—who is expected to be in Scotland during September—will make time for a meeting.
If father and son do reunite, it would be their first face-to-face since February 2024. At that time, Harry flew to see Charles shortly after the King revealed his cancer diagnosis, though their meeting reportedly lasted just 30 minutes.
Despite its brevity, Harry described that February reunion as meaningful. In an interview with Good Morning America, he said: “The fact that I was able to get on a plane and go and see him and spend any time with him, I’m grateful for that. I jumped on a plane and went to see him as soon as I could.”
At the time, he hinted that more visits might follow, adding: “I’ll stop in and see my family as much as I can.”
Looking Ahead
Whether his September trip will lead to further reconciliation remains uncertain. For now, Harry’s focus remains on his patronage of WellChild, which celebrates its 20th anniversary this year.
Calling the awards a privilege, he said: “I am always privileged to attend the WellChild Awards and meet the incredible children, families, and professionals who inspire us all with their strength and spirit.
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.”