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British RoyalsCoronavirusPrince & Princess of Wales

Duke of Cambridge writes of support for Centrepoint and Child Bereavement UK

Prince William, Duke of Cambridge

The Duke of Cambridge has written letters to his patronages, Centrepoint and Child Bereavement UK, supporting their work throughout the novel coronavirus outbreak.

William’s letter to Centrepoint reads:

“I’m writing to let you know how much I am thinking of everyone at Centrepoint at this unprecedented and difficult time.

“I know from Seyi that Centrepoint staff and volunteers all across the country are doing amazing work to continue supporting vulnerable young people in the midst of this global pandemic. This must be a worrying time for you all, and particularly hard for your families. Your willingness to go that extra mile and be there for those that need your help more than ever is what makes Centrepoint so very special.

“As the country suffers from the economic impact of the lockdown, it is very worrying to hear that you have seen a rise in calls to the Helpline from those who have lost their accommodation, or whose only option is to stay with vulnerable grandparents who they do not want to put at risk. Supporting these hidden homeless is such a crucial part of Centrepoint’s work, and I know you will continue to help these vulnerable young people however you can.

“For the young people you are supporting in hostels or in other accommodation, it must be particularly difficult facing self-isolation away from their friends and support networks. I know that you will be doing all you can to look after them, and help them look out for each other.

“Thank you for all you are doing in these incredibly difficult circumstances, and please look after yourselves.”

Centrepoint, which focuses on helping young people dealing with homelessness, was one of William’s first patronages. He became the charity’s patron in 2005; his late mother, Diana, had been patron of the charity, as well.

William’s letter to Child Bereavement UK reads:

“I am writing to express my sincere thanks and best wishes to all the staff, volunteers and supporters at Child Bereavement UK.

“I remain ever grateful and inspired by the vital work you do, including in this time of uncertainty. I know many of you are having to adapt to how you offer your services which can bring its own challenges, but I am in no doubt that those you are supporting are extremely appreciative. As you will all understand, it is incredibly important to continue supporting those in need even in the midst of this global pandemic.

“I also recognise that as time progresses it is likely the services of Child Bereavement UK will become ever more needed. We all know that COVID-19 is a virus that does not discriminate. I am certain you will all rise to that challenge and become a crucial lifeline for those that are suffering unthinkable loss.

“I know you will all continue to do everything you can to support people in their hour of need and I would like to thank you personally for all that you do.

“I am also aware that for many organisations this is a worrying time as some of the more traditional routes for fundraising are having to be redefined. I know that Ann and the rest of the senior management team are doing all they can to address this issue.

“Thank you for all you are doing in these incredibly difficult circumstances, and please look after yourselves.”

William has been a patron of Child Bereavement UK since 2009.

About author

Jess Ilse is the Assistant Editor at Royal Central. She specialises in the British, Danish, Norwegian and Swedish Royal Families and has been following royalty since Queen Elizabeth II’s Golden Jubilee. Jess has provided commentary for media outlets in Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia. Jess works in communications and her debut novel THE MAJESTIC SISTERS will publish in Fall 2024.