Spotlight: The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge’s involvement in NHS Charities Together

In December 2020, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were named the joint patrons of NHS Charities Together. NHS Charities Together covers a federation of more than 250 charitable organisations that focus on supporting the National Health Service, its staff, volunteers, and patients throughout the United Kingdom.

On a trip throughout the United Kingdom in December, the couple visited frontline workers and “heroes” to spotlight their efforts in response to the coronavirus pandemic. The news of their new patronage came just before the couple visited Edinburgh. In light of their new patronage, Ian Lush, the chair of the charity, said:

“This is such an honour for our organisation and for all the NHS charities across the UK.

“The involvement of Their Royal Highnesses will inspire the public to do even more to support the amazing NHS staff and volunteers who have done so much to keep us safe and well this year. We can’t wait to start working with the Duke and Duchess, the potential is so exciting.”

Throughout the last year, the Duke and Duchess have been vocal in supporting the NHS and its care staff by praising staff for their bravery during the pandemic. In November, the royals presented NHS staff with special recognition at the Daily Mirror Pride of Britain ceremony in which the Duke said to frontline workers:

“We cannot thank you enough. On behalf of a grateful nation, it is a tremendous honour for Catherine and I to present this special recognition award to the army of dedicated NHS staff.”

Since 2007, the Duke has been the President of the Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, a position that was previously held by his late mother, Diana, Princess of Wales. The Duke and Duchess are currently on a tour of Scotland until Thursday. During their tour, the royals will participate in meeting with charities and organisations that are doing work connected to the environment, mental health, homelessness, and addiction. The trip will also include a visit to the University of St Andrews, where the couple met 20 years ago.