Mountbatten Isle Of Wight Film Nominated For ‘Charity Oscars’ — Public Votes Needed

A powerful short film created by Mountbatten Isle of Wight has been nominated for what are often described as the “Oscars of charity film” — and the charity is now calling on Island residents to help it reach the finals.

The film, titled The Letter, has been shortlisted for the 2026 Smiley Charity Film Awards.

To progress to the final stage and be in contention for both the Judges’ Award and the People’s Choice Award, Mountbatten needs as many public votes as possible by Friday, 30 January 2026.

Islanders can watch the film and cast their vote via the Smiley Charity Film Awards website (or via the link below).

A Film With a Powerful Local Message

Mountbatten’s Chief Executive, Becky McGregor, says the film represents the voices of the Isle of Wight community:

“At its heart, The Letter is our Island community speaking up for dignity, compassion and choice at the end of life.

"Every vote is another voice saying that hospice care matters, and that our patients and their families must never be left to face the hardest moments of their lives alone.”

She added that the awards provide an important opportunity to highlight the financial pressures facing hospices:

“The Smiley Charity Film Awards give us a vital platform to raise awareness of the funding challenges facing hospices like ours and to help ensure end-of-life care remains accessible to everyone who needs it.”

Background to the Film

The Letter was originally produced in response to NHS funding cuts announced in May 2025, which would have seen Mountbatten Isle of Wight face an almost 40% reduction in funding from the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Integrated Care Board.

The film prompted a strong public response, encouraging people to contact MPs and health leaders.

That pressure helped lead to a reversal of the immediate cuts, although discussions over long-term sustainable funding beyond 2026 are ongoing.

National Recognition

The Smiley Charity Film Awards, recognised by the British Film Institute (BFI) and IMDb, are the world’s largest cause-based film campaign.

Mountbatten is competing in the £15m–£50m turnover category, alongside national charities including Dementia UK and Samaritans.

By voting, members of the public can help shine a national spotlight on the funding challenges facing Mountbatten and hospices across the UK.

The film was produced in collaboration with Isle of Wight-based NOSY Creative Agency.