Her Royal Highness, the Royal Patron of East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) and Tŷ Hafan Children’s Hospice in South Wales, shared a personal message ahead of Children’s Hospice Week.
This annual event, backed by children’s palliative care charity Together for Short Lives, aims to raise awareness of the crucial services provided by children’s hospices.
The Princess of Wales Catherine said: “No parent expects to hear that their child has a serious health condition that could shorten their life.
“Sadly, this is the reality faced by thousands of families across the country, leaving them heart-broken, fearful of the future and often desperately isolated.
“Being able to access the support of one of the UK’s 54 children’s hospices means they don’t have to face that future alone.”
She called on the public to join her in celebrating and thanking these dedicated organisations for their “vital care” in helping families “through life, death and beyond”.
The Princess of Wales has been EACH’s Royal Patron since January 2012 and became Royal Patron of Tŷ Hafan Children’s Hospice in January 2025.
Kevin Clements, EACH’s chief executive, said: “We’re so incredibly grateful for The Princess’ invaluable contribution as our dedicated Royal Patron.
“Her ongoing support and vast profile have projected our charity onto the global stage and this latest message is a perfect way to mark Children’s Hospice Week.
“It’s a great opportunity to shine a light on the work of children’s hospices generally, as well as giving us an opportunity to raise awareness and remind everyone of the need for public support, given we rely on donations for the majority of our income.”
Children’s Hospice Week, which culminates on Sunday, June 22, unites 54 children’s hospices across the UK, celebrating their extraordinary work for families and children faced with life-limiting conditions.
Nick Carroll, CEO of Together for Short Lives, praised the princess’s ongoing support, stating it has raised “much-needed awareness of the life-changing work children’s hospices do”.