A DORSET boy has become the face of Children’s Hospice Week, which raises awareness and funds for children’s hospice and palliative care services across the UK.

Seven-year-old William, who lives with his mum Tania, dad Pete and little sister Eleanor, was born with the main arteries of his heart the wrong way round. He had open heart surgery at a week old which led to extensive brain damage and the onset of serious and uncontrolled epilepsy.

William and his family receive care and support from Julia’s House, the children’s hospice in Corfe Mullen. He was chosen as the face of this year’s Moments That Matter campaign from the 54 children’s hospices across the UK.

Emma Dixon, of Together for Short Lives, the charity behind the campaign said William’s story “showcases the best of children’s hospice care”.

“Importantly, the lovely photos of his family and the care team also help us tackle some of the myths and misconceptions around children’s hospice care, showing that services like Julia’s House are warm, kind places offering a vital lifeline to families with a seriously ill child,” she said.

Tania explained how the support the family receives from Julia’s House has enabled them to enjoy special moments together: “Once a month we go somewhere as a family but William’s nurse and carer come along too. That way we can enjoy a lovely, relaxing day together as a family, knowing there are extra pairs of hands to help care for William. We’ve taken them swimming, for a walk in the woods – all different places. This time together is so precious.”