A children’s hospice received a Government grant of over £500,000 yesterday to improve the support they provide to local families.

Richard House Children’s Hospice, in Richard House Drive, Beckton, helps to bring a smile to the faces of little ones with life-limiting conditions.

The Department of Health announced yesterday that the charity had been selected to share a total of £4.9m to improve care environments and settings.

Richard House was given £510,000 which they will spend creating new spaces for families and extending their home care services.

Announcing the successful projects, Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg said: “Hospices help patients and their families at what can be the most difficult part of their life.

“This extra funding will help bring hospices up to date, so staff and volunteers can work in modern environments, helping them continue to provide wonderful support with compassion and kindness.

“And patients will see a huge difference in their surroundings that play a considerable part in helping them psychologically and physically.”

Richard House was one of 14 hospices chosen to receive a grant in London along with Haven House Children’s Hospice in Woodford Green, and St Joseph’s Hospice in Hackney.