Tyler West joins Children in Need as the fundraiser's newest presenter

He'll join the likes of Alex Jones and Mel Giedroyc on Friday 13th November!

BBC Children in Need has today announced that television and radio presenter Tyler West will join as the annual appeal show's newest presenter when the fundraiser returns on Friday 13th October.

Tyler will present alongside Alex Jones, Rylan Clark, Sara Cox, and Mel Giedroyc, who will be celebrating one decade of presenting the iconic annual show, which this year is calling on people across the UK to get fundraising, take on a challenge and help ensure there is someone by the side of every child when they need it the most.

On joining BBC Children in Need, Tyler West said "Watching BBC Children in Need with my mum and brother was always one of the highlights of the year when I was growing up, so to now be presenting the show myself feels pretty special – and a huge honour!"

"Before stepping into the world of television, I worked as a youth worker, so I’ve seen first-hand just how much of a difference the support from BBC Children in Need can make to young people. I’m really looking forward to being part of such a brilliant night, packed with entertainment, surprises and, most importantly, a cause that means so much. Make sure you tune in on Friday 13th November - I can’t wait!"

The launch for this year's appeal comes at a critical moment for children and young people across the UK. Rising levels of poverty, inequality and poor mental health are creating growing challenges, while demand for support continues to increase.

BBC Children in Need can only afford to fund one in six organisations that ask for help, leaving around half a million children and young people without access to the support they need.

New research commissioned by BBC Children in Need and conducted by Censuswide among 2,000 children aged 11 to 16 and their parents highlights the significant pressures facing young people today. The findings reveal that too many children and young people aged 11-16 are facing challenges alone, with 44% saying they had felt worried or low and had no one to talk to at least sometimes during the past month. Alarmingly, around 1 in 6 (17%) said they experienced this often or all the time.

The research also sheds light on the barriers preventing young people aged 11-16 from accessing the support, opportunities and activities outside of school. Cost was identified as the biggest obstacle (29%). Meanwhile, 17% lacked the confidence or didn’t feel comfortable to get involved, and a further 18% said there was nothing near where they live.

The findings also point to wider challenges affecting young people's wellbeing and sense of connection. When feeling stressed, worried or upset, around 1 in 6 (17%) said they keep their feelings to themselves, while one in eight (12%) said they do not feel they belong in their local community.

Together, these findings underline the ongoing need for safe spaces, trusted relationships and accessible opportunities that help children and young people build confidence, resilience and a strong sense of belonging.

Every day, BBC Children in Need-funded projects across the UK help provide children and young people with someone to listen, someone to support them and someone to believe in them. Across youth clubs, community groups, family centres, hospices and helplines, more than 1,500 projects are helping young people build confidence, improve their wellbeing and feel more connected to the world around them.

At the heart of this year's Appeal is Challenge Yourself 2026, BBC Children in Need's flagship fundraising campaign. People of all ages are being encouraged to create a challenge inspired by the number 26 and raise money to help children and young people thrive. Whether it's walking 26 miles, learning 26 new words, baking 26 cakes, giving up a favourite treat for 26 days or trying something completely new, the challenge is yours to make your own.

To sign up for Challenge Yourself 2026 and start fundraising today, visit the BBC Children in Need website.

Supporters can also take part in Run with Pudsey and Joe Wicks, which challenges people to walk, run or roll their way to a marathon by completing two miles a day in the two weeks leading up to the BBC Children in Need Appeal on Friday 13 November. Every mile completed and every pound raised will help ensure children and young people have the support they need to thrive.

On returning to BBC Children in Need for her tenth year, Mel Giedroyc said "Being a part of this show ever year is something that I am so honoured and privileged to do – it is one of the most life affirming days in my calendar."

"Not only do we have so much fun in the studio, but with thanks to our wonderful audience who come faithfully every year we are able to raise millions of pounds to support children and their families who are facing some extremely tough challenges in their lives. It’s a very special event and I am so looking forward to it!"

Made by BBC Studios Entertainment Productions, Children in Need will broadcast live from Salford.

BBC Children in Need returns Friday 13th November on BBC One