- The new Worcester hospice will be staffed by a team of up to 40 people including physiotherapists, activity co-ordinators, social workers and bereavement councillors. There will also be a community team and about 150 unpaid volunteers, who are still being sought.

- The Acorns service involves respite care, allowing families to take a break, and a 24-hour community service so families have support at home while they are caring for their child.

- Families are referred to Acorns by paediatricians, GPs, social workers and, occasionally, by themselves.

- The service required for Worcester has been carefully researched by Acorns' care staff in consultation with families and local supporting agencies.

- Of the 10 bedrooms planned for Worcester, one room will be kept for emergencies. The other nine will be managed carefully to allow for some pre-booking.

- Children typically stay three or four nights. It is unlikely that all 10 bedrooms will be in use at any one time.

- The hospice has been designed by Associated Architects based in Birmingham.

- The centre will be Acorns' third in the UK. The first was built in Selly Oak, Birmingham, in 1988 and the second in Walsall in 1996.

- The building's specifications have been completed for its 100 rooms. The building contract will be put out to tender in June and will be awarded in September. Work will hopefully start in October.

- With just 12 per cent of Acorns income coming form statutory sources, community fundraising is vital. Everyone can help by making a donation, helping with fundraising, donating goods to a hospice shop or joining a hospice lottery.