Zach Eagling, who suffers from epilepsy, launched his crusade after sick bullies had tried to trigger seizures by sending flashing messages to a social media page he set up for a charity fundraising walk.
The 12-year-old battled away for more than three years to have the life-threatening abuse categorised as a criminal offence.
And the Daily Express campaigned alongside him, following his story every step of the way.
In October 2023, “Zach’s Law” became enshrined in legislation as part of the Online Safety Act – this was the first time a law has been written specifically to protect people with epilepsy.
That means that anyone who maliciously targets sufferers online could now face a prison sentence of up to five years.
Zach, from the village of Hartshead in West Yorkshire, said: “I want to thank the Prime Minister for recognising my hard work and I’m pleased and proud that I’ve managed to change the law.”
His campaign was also supported from the start by his proud mum Claire Keer and the Epilepsy Society.
Claire, 41, said: “We are all so proud of Zach. It is amazing to think that a schoolboy could stand up to the internet trolls and change the law – but Zach did it and this award is a wonderful recognition of his achievement.”
“Our next step will be to see the law replicated worldwide as the internet is a global platform.”
Nicola Swanborough, head of external affairs at the Epilepsy Society, said: “It is wonderful to see Zach recognised through the awards.”
“He is an outstanding young man and an inspiration to his generation. His commitment to our Zach’s Law campaign has been unwavering.”
“He has made the world a safer place for people with epilepsy.”
“We are im-mensely proud of him and can think of no finer recipient to mark the new year.”
Zach’s local MP Kim Leadbeater said: “I’m incredibly proud and delighted to congratulate him on his very well deserved Points of Light award. How many children of his age can say that they have successfully helped to change the law of the land?”
“His campaign against the evil online trolling of people with epilepsy was inspirational and both he and his mum Claire, along with the Epilepsy Society, have made the internet a safer place.”
“When the Online Safety Act was passed, and ‘Zach’s Law’ was finally a reality, it was a proud day for him and his family, for Hartshead and for Yorkshire. Working with Zach and taking him and his campaign to Parliament was a real pleasure and this award is a fantastic tribute to his hard work, good humour and determination.”
Every weekday throughout the year, the Points of Light scheme recognises an outstanding individual volunteer, charity leader or community champion for the positive change that they have made.
Zach is now the 2,232nd recipient of the honour.
