“Grief is the very worst pain any child or parent will ever endure, and while we cannot prevent these losses, we can ensure that every possible type of expert support and care is given, to help rebuild the lives of those affected,” he said.

He continued, “In my sixteen years as Patron of Child Bereavement UK I have seen the life changing impact of their work and how the support, care and compassion provided protects the long-term health and wellbeing of those living with loss.

“I have also seen the growing need for support of this kind, and it is because of this increasing demand that I am delighted that Child Bereavement UK and Winston’s Wish are joining forces to expand their impact.”

The newly combined organisation will continue operating under the name Child Bereavement UK, and Prince William will remain its Royal Patron.

William first took on the role in 2009. The charity itself was originally founded in 1994 with the backing of Princess Diana.

“They have recognised that together they can do so much more,” William added, “and I commend them both for taking this bold step to reach more people and help to reduce the long-term challenges that unresolved grief can cause.”

Commenting on the merger, Liz Gratton, Chair of Winston’s Wish, said: “Combining our expertise, networks, and resources to address issues with greater impact and efficiency will allow us to deliver new projects, expand reach, and serve a broader demographic of bereaved communities that neither organisation could achieve alone.”