A charity which cares for Stourbridge and Dudley children has issued a rallying-call for members of the public to support the vital work of their local children’s hospice.

In the past year Acorns, which operates a hospice, Acorns in the Black Country, based in Walsall, has cared for more than 30 children and their families from Dudley and Stourbridge including those who are bereaved.

Speaking during Children's Hospice week this week, Acorns chief executive Toby Porter said: “More children are accessing Acorns services than ever before in our 30 year history, yet we know there is still much unmet need out there in our local community.

“Advances in medical care means children and babies who would have previously sadly died, are thankfully living longer, often with more highly complex clinical needs.

"Alongside this, state-run services and care providers are increasingly stretched, meaning more families than ever are turning to children’s palliative care services like ours.”

Acorns, which this year celebrates its 30th anniversary, is currently the UK and the world’s largest children’s hospice charity, as measured by the number of children in its care.

Toby added: “Children’s Hospice Week is the perfect opportunity for members of the public to ask themselves what they could do to support the children and families in their local communities to whom Acorns is a lifeline.

“Whether it’s signing up to volunteer your time in an Acorns shop, getting together with friends and colleagues to fundraise, or joining one of our fundraising events, your support means so much and is as vital as ever.

“We live in unpredictable times, and we need to raise more than £10 million every year to continue, but with the help of our wonderful supporters, staff and volunteers, we will ensure we continue to provide world class care to all the children and families referred to Acorns and receiving our specialist services.”

This week Acorns has announced an ambitious new three-year strategy, entitled Making Every Day Count, as it seeks to reach more children and families in the region who require its vital care and support. To read more, visit www.acorns.org.uk/makingeverydaycount