**Princess of Wales Celebrates Children’s Hospices during Dedicated Week**
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The Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, has issued a heartfelt letter honouring the vital role that children’s hospices play in supporting families facing severe and life-limiting illnesses. Her message, sent on June 15, coincides with Children’s Hospice Week, a dedicated time to raise awareness about the essential services provided by these facilities across the UK.
In her letter, Princess Kate celebrated the “joyful and nurturing environments” offered by children’s hospices. She emphasised their significance not only for the young patients, but also for the families who rely on their support. The Princess noted the hospices as places where children can enjoy their youth in a safe and caring setting, encouraging play and self-expression.
She expressed her admiration for the “remarkable” work done by hospice staff who provide expert, holistic care. “Children’s hospices are places that allow families to breathe, be together, and draw strength from a community that understands their journey,” Princess Kate wrote. Her advocacy for children’s hospices has been ongoing since she became involved with East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) shortly after marrying Prince William in 2011. In 2025, she also became patron of Tŷ Hafan Children’s Hospice, located near Cardiff.
The Princess underlined the importance of breaking down barriers that families often face in seeking help. “Shining a light on the often unseen work of hospices can dismantle the fears families have about reaching out, helping them understand that support is available throughout their child’s journey, not just at the end,” she remarked.
Princess Kate’s comments reinforce the message that even in difficult circumstances, a nurturing environment can foster joy and belonging for children. “These extraordinary places remind us that childhood is still a time of creativity and connection, even in the face of serious illness.” Her commitment to highlighting the impact of children’s hospices comes at a particularly busy time for the royal family, who have recently participated in several notable public events.
Kevin Clements, Chief Executive of EACH, praised the influence Princess Kate has in raising awareness for children’s hospices. “Her continued encouragement and international profile have been invaluable in bringing greater attention to our charity and the families we serve,” he said. Clements added that her latest message serves as an essential reminder of the critical support that children’s hospices provide.
Irfon Rees, Chief Executive of Tŷ Hafan, also commended the Princess’s efforts in drawing attention to the positive influences these facilities have on many families. His reflections on her message highlighted the soothing and supportive spaces that hospices create for families undergoing immense challenges.
The week dedicated to children’s hospices is organised by Together for Short Lives, a UK charity that seeks to ensure that all children with life-limiting conditions can receive the care they need. During a visit to Tŷ Hafan in January 2025, Princess Kate interacted with staff and parents who have had their children cared for in the hospice. One mother, Candice Jones, shared her experience, recalling the calm and solace she felt upon visiting. Jones, whose daughter passed away from Alexander’s Disease, described Tŷ Hafan as a place where families could embrace each other and feel connected, saying, “It is all about you and your family here, and it is so calm.”
The Princess’s advocacy highlights the importance of community support for children’s hospices, ensuring that no family endures their journey alone. By encouraging public participation in recognising the invaluable services these hospices provide, she calls on society to contribute to the well-being of vulnerable families.
Through her unwavering dedication, Princess Kate continues to shine a light on the often-overlooked contributions of children’s hospices, a testament to her commitment to improving the lives of both children and their families across the UK. Her call to action during Children’s Hospice Week serves as both an invitation and a reminder of the profound impact that compassionate care can have in nurturing hope and resilience, even amid life’s toughest challenges.