“It is a tremendous boost to all our families at the most difficult time imaginable.” That was the reaction from Tŷ Hafan Chair, Martin Davies, at the news that His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales has agreed to extend his Patronage of the children’s charity for a further term.
His Royal Highness has a long association with Wales’ first children’s hospice – officially becoming Patron in 2001, just two years after the Charity opened its doors.
The Prince of Wales last visited Tŷ Hafan in 2018 when he met with life-limited children, their families and staff at the hospice. His Royal Highness also re-signed his purple handprint on the hospice’s colourful ‘wall of fame’ which was originally made during his first visit to Tŷ Hafan in 2001.
Speaking about His Royal Highness’ decision to remain as Patron, following a review by Clarence House, Mr Davies said,
“The generous support from The Prince of Wales has given Tŷ Hafan a huge help over the two decades of our existence. As the first children’s hospice in Wales, we value this association very dearly and it really makes a difference to our visibility as a charity. We couldn’t ask for a Patron of greater standing, and the timing of today’s confirmation couldn’t be any better.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has been such a difficult time for everyone associated with Tŷ Hafan. Not only have all our fundraising activities been hit really hard – but Tŷ Hafan also provides expert frontline healthcare to some of the most vulnerable children in Wales and that has brought its own challenges at this time. Knowing that we have renewed support from His Royal Highness is an amazing and timely morale boost for all our families, staff and volunteers.”
Recognising the immensity of the challenge facing Tŷ Hafan during the pandemic, The Prince of Wales wrote to the Charity in March saying,
“As your Patron, I have nothing but the greatest sympathy for the predicament you face and the many difficult decisions and circumstances that have to be managed. Above all, I am certain you will be doing your utmost to maintain the essential elements of the care and service you provide to so many vulnerable people who depend on you, and of which I am so immensely proud as your Patron.”
