THIS week is Children's Hospice South West's first ever Raise a Smile Week, to raise vital funds to help the hospice carry on raising a smile for its families.

This new initiative for CHSW is part of the nationwide Children's Hospice Week — the UK'­s awareness and fundraising week for children's hospice services. 

Emma Lloyd, Children's Hospice South West Head of Fundraising (West) said: 'For many of our families coming to one of our hospices for respite is a huge relief and they use their time with us to enjoy being a family and have fun without the usual overwhelming responsibility that comes with caring for their life-limited child.

'The easiest way to get involved and show your support for Raise a Smile Week is to buy one of our smiley badges! 

Buy and wear your smiley with pride knowing that this simple act will help us continue our very special care across the South West.'

Smiley badges are available from the CHSW shop at 11 West Street, Tavistock and NatWest plus many more outlets across the region.