Children in Need 2026 Total: £38.7m Raised on the Night – Everything That Happened

BBC Children in Need 2026 has raised £38,720,170 so far, the charity revealed at the end of Friday night’s live appeal show. The total was announced by Mel Giedroyc as the broadcast closed, after an evening of Strictly Come Dancing routines, celebrity cameos and stories about the children and young people the money will help.

How much did Children in Need 2026 raise?

The on-the-night total stands at £38,720,170. As in previous years, that figure is only the start: money from schools, workplaces, sponsored events and late donations keeps coming in for weeks, and the BBC usually announces a bigger final total later in the year.

The figure is lower than the £45.5m raised on the night in 2025, which comes as many households are still under pressure from the cost of living.

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What happened on the night?

The live show was hosted by Alex Jones, Mel Giedroyc, Rylan, Sara Cox and Tyler West. The evening included a special Strictly Come Dancing performance, appearances from Gladiators and Dragons’ Den stars, and the Children in Need choir, alongside films about projects the charity funds across the UK.

Closing the show, Alex Jones told viewers: “To the millions of children and young people out there, remember, Children in Need is here for you.” Mel Giedroyc added: “We’re so grateful to each and every one of you for your support,” while Sara Cox urged: “Keep the donations coming in!”

Owain Wyn Evans raises £3.8m on bike challenge

BBC weather presenter Owain Wyn Evans’ five-day bike ride through Scotland, Northern Ireland, England and Wales brought in £3,853,530. He finished in Cardiff on Friday, just hours before the live show began.

Can you still donate to Children in Need?

Yes. Donations can still be made through the official BBC Children in Need website, and many schools and workplaces will be paying in money raised this week over the coming days. The full show is available to watch again on BBC iPlayer.

Sources: BBC Children in Need; BBC One live broadcast, 13 November 2026.