THE Duchess of Cambridge has released a personal message to raise awareness of hospices that care for children with life-limiting illnesses.

The video message was released today to mark the beginning of Children's Hospice Week this week. 

In a speech to camera, the Duchess asks everyone to celebrate and shine a light on the children’s palliative care and hospice services that care for the UK’s 49,000 children suffering from life-limiting conditions.

The Royal is patron of East Anglia's Children's Hospices (EACH), which supports 368 children and their families in Essex, Norfolk, Suffolk and Cambridgeshire.

She says: "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.   

"As patron of EACH I have seen the incredible difference that children’s hospice and palliative care services can make for children, young people and their families."

Graham Butland, chief executive of EACH, said: "We are extremely honoured Her Royal Highness has taken the time to record a message of support, not only for EACH but for all children’s hospices across the UK.

"The video message recognises the hard work and expertise of our staff and volunteers, as well as the range of excellent services that we provide.

"Children’s Hospice Week is a key date in our calendar and we hope that people will join us by getting involved by raising money and awareness of children’s palliative care services."

Watch the clip here: