Cancer Support UK and Warmies® launches 2026 Create Your Dream Bestie competition – giving children with cancer the chance to bring their imaginary friend to life
Cancer Support UK has launched the 2026 Create Your Dream Bestie competition, inviting children receiving treatment for cancer to design their very own imaginary best friend – with the winning creation being brought to life as a real cuddly toy by Warmies® – famed for their cuddly toys and wellness products, which can be microwaved for warmth and comfort.
Now in its second year, the national competition encourages children in hospital to dream big, be creative, and let their imaginations soar, despite going through the toughest of times. The initiative follows the success of 11-year-old Spencer Codling, winner of the 2025 competition and designer of the hugely popular Bat Cat toy, produced and sold by Warmies in support of Cancer Support UK.
Spencer Codling holds an armful of Bat Cats, which are being sold by Warmies to support Cancer Support UK
Giving children moments of joy, hope and distraction
For many children undergoing cancer treatment, art and storytelling offer precious moments of escape. Spencer’s mum, Karen Codling, said the competition was “a lifeline of joy” during her son’s treatment.
“Taking part in the competition gave Spencer something positive to focus on during each stage of his treatment,” Karen said. “It distracted him from the difficult days, gave him hope, and gave us something to look forward to together. Seeing Bat Cat come to life was absolutely magical.”
Following the success of Bat Cat, which has sparked messages of support nationwide – Spencer himself shared a message for other children considering entering this year’s competition:
“I just want to say a huge thank you to everyone who bought a Bat Cat teddy in support of me and Cancer Support UK,” said Spencer, who wanted to create a superhero teddy, which children could cuddle when having treatment to make them feel better.
“Your kindness and generosity made our hearts smile! Every purchase puts a HUGE smile on my face and helped Cancer Support UK do their amazing work.
Spencer takes Bat Cat everywhere with him
Encouraging creativity during treatment
The 2026 competition invites children undergoing cancer treatment in hospitals across the UK to create and submit drawings of their “Dream Bestie” – a companion who makes them feel brave, happy, safe or magical.
Mark Guymer, CEO of Cancer Support UK, said:
“Every day, we meet children who show extraordinary bravery while facing cancer. The Create Your Dream Bestie competition gives them a chance to escape into creativity, to imagine someone who brings comfort and to see that imagination celebrated.
“This competition is about joy, hope and believing that dreams can come true, even in the hardest times. Last year Spencer inspired us all with Bat Cat, plus we received some amazing designs from children across the UK. Now we can’t wait to see what children create for the 2026 competition.
“Entry forms are available to download from the Cancer Support UK website. In addition, forms will be available from all major cancer treatment centres in the UK.
“We really hope people will be inspired to buy one of the remaining limited edition Bat Cats – it’s a lovely comforting toy that anyone can appreciate.”
Spencer was thrilled with his very own Bat Cat plus framed winner’s certificate and Warmies concept artwork, which helped bring his Bat Cat design to life
Warmies® bring the magic to life
Warmies®, known for their heatable soft toys designed to provide comfort and calm, will once again manufacture the winning design as a limited-edition cuddly toy – to be sold in support of Cancer Support UK’s work with people of all ages who are affected by cancer.
David Tweedale, CEO at Warmies®, said:
“Partnering with Cancer Support UK on this competition is one of the highlights of our year. Seeing the joy on Spencer’s face when Bat Cat was created was unforgettable and we’re honoured to bring another child’s Dream Bestie to life in 2026.
“Warmies toys are all about warmth, comfort and soothing moments, and this competition brings those values to children who truly deserve them.”
How to enter
Children currently receiving cancer treatment, or their families on their behalf, can find more information about the competition and download an entry form on the Cancer Support UK website.
Entries close: 31 January 2026
The winning Dream Bestie will be professionally designed, manufactured and released by Warmies in 2026, with proceeds supporting Cancer Support UK’s services people living with and beyond cancer.
Primary cancer treatment centres in the UK
- Addenbrookes
- Alder Hey
- Birmingham Children’s Hospital
- Cardiff and Vale UHB -Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospital
- Edingburgh
- John Radcliffe Hospital Oxford
- Leeds – Leeds General Infirmary
- London – The Royal Marsden Hospital
- Manchester – Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital
- Newcastle – Great Northern Children’s Hospital
- NOTTINGHAM Childrens Hospital
- Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother Hospital
- Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children
- Royal Hospital for Children Glasgow
- Sheffield – Sheffield Children’s Hospital
- Southampton – Southampton Children’s Hospital
- University College London Hospital
- University Hospitals Plymouth
- Bristol Royal Hospital for Children- Ocean Unit and wards
- Leicester Royal Infirmary
- Great Ormond Street
