The Duchess of Cambridge has written a letter of support to the staff at the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists ahead of the UK’s Maternal Mental Health Week.
Kate’s letter, which was posted on social media by the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, reads:
“As Patron of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, I wanted to write to let you know how much I am thinking of you at this challenging time.
“Your longstanding expertise in supporting the delivery of high-quality women’s healthcare could not be more crucial now we are in the midst of this global pandemic.
“I know that the guidance and resources you have developed to inform and support both healthcare professionals and the general public on coronavirus infection are of fundamental importance to ensure pregnant women are given the best possible care over the coming weeks and months.
“Through my work around early childhood, I have learnt that our experiences during our earliest years, even while we are still in the womb, shape not only our evolving minds and bodies but all aspects of our development. At this particularly anxious time, it is therefore more crucial than ever that we provide the right care for pregnant women and new mothers. Care that supports women’s emotional, as well as physical, health, to ensure that mothers prioritise their own mental wellbeing when they are under so much pressure.
“Thank you for your continued work and I send you my very best wishes for the months ahead.”
The Duchess of Cambridge has been holding meetings with maternity care experts over the past two weeks to discuss how expectant and new mothers can take care of their mental health, Kensington Palace revealed on Saturday evening.
“We need to do more to get the message out that mental health is important, and if you need help, get help. We’re here to help,” another expert stated, to show that maternal services are still operational during the pandemic and that they’re capable of supporting mental health services.
Her Royal Highness replied, “As organisations, you’re playing such a vital role giving key information. You’re hugely trusted by the public, and therefore, the information you provide is a lifeline to a lot of people.”
