Duchess praises work of charity that aims to help Cambridgeshire families
Duchess of Cambridge helps to kick start Children's Hospice Week
The Duchess of Cambridge has praised the “extraordinary” work of “dedicated staff and volunteers” at children’s hospices across the country.
To mark the beginning of Children’s Hospice Week, Kate, a patron of East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (Each), released a personal video to show her support on Monday.
“They deliver first-class care in a safe environment that feels as close to home as possible, full of colour, warmth, love and support,” she said.
“Today, as we mark the beginning of Children’s Hospice Week, I hope you will join me in shining a light on the dedicated and inspirational staff and volunteers, and the lifeline services they provide for children and their families.
“The work they do is extraordinary, and it really does make a world of difference.”
The Cambridge Independent has launched a campaign alongside Each to raise £87,500 to establish Each’s Help at Home service which will provide support to Cambridgeshire families.
Children’s Hospice Week, which runs from May 22 to 28, is organised by the UK charity Together For Short Lives.
Graham Butland, Each chief executive, said: “Children’s Hospice Week is a key date in our calendar.
“It’s an opportunity to shine a light on the number and complex needs of children and young people with life-threatening conditions as well as the range of services that support them.
“As we rely heavily on public support, this is also an opportunity to share with our supporters just how much we value their help and what a difference it makes to local families accessing our services. We hope that people will join us during May 22-28 and get involved by raising money and also awareness of children’s palliative care services.”
Her message was recorded on a visit to meet children and families at Each in Quidenham in January this year. In her recording, the Duchess highlighted that across the UK there are more than 49,000 children and young people with life-limiting conditions.
“For any parent being told that your child may have a life-limiting condition or may die young will be one of the most difficult and isolating experiences you can face,” she said.
“Having someone to help you come to terms with this news and the professional support and care that comes with this can make an enormous difference. It can help families make the most of every precious moment they have together.”
Donate at uk.virginmoneygiving.com/fund/helpathome.
