A CHILDREN'S charity has secured its future with the renewal of a 'critical' grant from the NHS.

Robin Walker, Member of Parliament for Worcester, congratulated Acorns Children's Hospice in response to the news.

Mr Walker and other local MPs lobbied NHS England to continue the Children's Hospice Grant for the next two years.

There were concerns that the grant, which supports Acorns' Worcester-based hospice, could be reduced due to pressure on public funding.

"Acorns Children’s Hospice provides incredible support to families and young people living with life limiting conditions," Mr Walker said.

"It is an institution we can truly be proud of in Worcester and one that we are lucky to have.

"Whilst all hospices exist because of the generosity of their donors and Acorns owes its place in Worcester to some wonderful examples of local generosity, it is right that where they provide services to the NHS and support the wider health community they should receive some targeted public investment.

"I am delighted that Acorns continues to receive one of the largest NHS grants due to the fantastic they do across the West Midlands and I have no doubt they will continue to make sure every penny counts.

"I congratulate Acorns on securing this investment and continue to urge businesses and constituents across Worcester to support this wonderful local charity."

Mr Walker recently met with staff from Acorns and found out about the work they carry out to help children with life-threatening illnesses.

Toby Porter, chief executive at Acorns, said: “The Children’s Hospice Grant is a critical source of income for us, which directly translates into services delivered to children and their families, entirely in keeping with the strategic as well as compassionate intent of the NHS England grant.

"We are therefore extremely grateful for Robin’s continued support of Acorns Children’s Hospice and his endeavours throughout this consultation process."

Mr Porter added that the NHS funding is 'critical' in covering their costs, which amount to almost £10m every year.

About 70p of every pound received by Acorns is donated by the public, while 10p is received from the Children’s Hospice Grant and 20p is from other local NHS contributions.