17:07, 29 April 2026
Words by Cheyanne Bryan, Editorial and Campaign Marketing Executive, London
The RSPCA has been awarded the People’s Choice honour at this year’s Smiley Charity Film Awards for its powerful and deeply moving film, Alesha and Roy.
The film tells the story of Roy, a dog rescued after distressing CCTV footage revealed he had been subjected to abuse. While the footage itself was too upsetting to share publicly, the RSPCA found a creative and compassionate way to bring Roy’s story to light.
With the support of ambassador and singer Alesha Dixon, the charity invited her to watch the footage and share her emotional response, allowing audiences to connect with Roy’s journey without viewing the traumatic scenes directly.
Through Alesha’s heartfelt reaction, the film captures both the cruelty Roy endured and the remarkable transformation that followed. Now living in a loving home by the seaside, Roy has overcome his past fears and is thriving alongside his new family and fellow canine companions.
Reflecting on the experience, Alesha described the footage as “extremely difficult to watch,” adding that she was deeply grateful the RSPCA was able to rescue him. She highlighted Roy’s journey from a frightened, broken dog to a happy, confident pet “living life to the full.”
The film exemplifies the RSPCA’s long-standing mission. Founded in 1824, the charity is the world’s oldest and largest animal welfare organisation, dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming animals across England and Wales.
Winning the People’s Choice award underscores the emotional impact of Roy’s story and the public’s support for the RSPCA’s work to combat animal cruelty.
To discover the other winners across different categories, go here.
