Princess of Wales dons helmet and high-vis jacket for major expansion at hospice she opened in 2012

Catherine visited The Treehouse children’s hospice in Ipswich, a facility she originally opened in March 2012.

The engagement was intended to shine a light on the profound difference that EACH’s care and support makes for children living with life-limiting conditions and their families.

The Treehouse currently provides care to roughly 185 children, young people and family members.

Its existing facilities include five bedrooms for children, accommodation for families, a sensory room, hydrotherapy pool and music studio.

The hospice also features a sensory garden, woodland walk and play areas equipped with specialist outdoor equipment.

EACH operates on the principle that young people in hospice care require the same things as any other child to flourish: friendship, enjoyment, family time and laughter.

The charity views its hospices as restorative environments where families can create precious memories and draw strength from a community that shares their experience.

Construction is currently underway on a significant expansion of The Treehouse, which the Princess inspected during her visit. Catherine was briefed on the project by EACH’s chief executive, Kevin Clements.

The new building will house a hydrotherapy pool, a wellbeing and therapies suite, a larger area for care activities, a dedicated space for teenagers, an extra bedroom and expanded kitchen and dining facilities. Work is expected to be completed by spring 2028.

The organisation continues to raise funds to cover both the cost of the expansion and its ongoing day-to-day services for families. Once finished, the additional facilities will offer children and young people greater opportunities for play, self-expression and connection.

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The Princess also spent time with The Treehouse’s bereaved family support group, meeting those who continue to receive help from the charity after losing a child.

She then joined youngsters and their families during respite care sessions, taking part in music therapy and sensory experiences.

These creative therapies reflect EACH’s holistic model of care, which aims to support each child’s emotional, social and developmental wellbeing.

The approach is designed to foster self-expression, creativity and meaningful connections between children and those around them, while giving families the chance to enjoy restorative time together.