“The government’s financial aid announcement to support hospices through the Covid-19 emergency is very welcome at a time when the most vulnerable children and young people in our communities need our help more than ever," said Simon Hills, Chief Executive of Bluebell Wood Children's Hospice.

“Bluebell Wood and hospices across the UK are on the frontline in providing this vital care and support, as well as supporting our NHS colleagues to alleviate the unprecedented pressures they are facing. 

“We are very pleased that this has now been recognised by the government, as well as the dramatic impact the crisis has had on our ability to raise funds to support our lifeline work.

“As a charity, we rely on the generosity of our amazing supporters and the communities we are a part of, but we know that, faced with such uncertainty, many are not able to support us in the ways they ordinarily would.

“Over the coming days we are looking forward to seeing more detail on the financial aid package, to fully understand what it will mean for us as a charity.

“Finally, I would like to thank our incredible care team and staff who have all shown remarkable bravery and dedication in their response to the crisis.

“It’s nothing short of inspirational and together we will continue to do all we can to protect the most vulnerable in our communities through the incredibly challenging weeks and months ahead.”