The Duchess of Cambridge at Kensington Palace with a group of parents who have helped her understand the importance of providing support for mums and dads during the earliest years of children's lives. (Tolga Akmen-WPA Pool/Getty Images)

The Duchess of Cambridge has offered her sympathy to families of seriously ill children as she reflected on a difficult year during the pandemic.

Kate, 39, is the patron of East Anglia Children's Hospices (EACH). She called for the nation to thank hospices for the work they do to provide care for children at the end of their lives.

She noted that the pandemic has been especially frightening for parents who have ill children, noting they had to start shielding early on.

In her message, Kate said: "The last year has been a difficult one for everyone, and especially tough and frightening for families with seriously ill children. Many started shielding long before others, worrying about the pandemic and what it might mean for their child.

"The theme for this year’s Children’s Hospice Week is 'Pushed to the Limits', recognising the tremendous strain these families face, and why the care and support of their local children’s hospices is needed now more than ever.

"Children's hospices are a lifeline, and I have been privileged to see first-hand the remarkable work they do. They give families the care and time they need to make treasured lifelong memories - the chance to be parents, not carers.