Prince William recently visited the Royal Berkshire Hospital in Reading, England, where his wife, Princess Catherine, was born in January 1982.
His visit on March 5th aimed to highlight the impact of a health care charity that has supported NHS staff and patients since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. It has been five years since the outbreak, and the Prince of Wales wanted to pay tribute to NHS Charities Together, an organization that launched an urgent appeal in 2020 to provide essential resources for frontline workers and volunteers. The hospital also holds historical significance as the place where the UK's first COVID-19 victim passed away in March 2020.
As a patron of NHS Charities Together, Prince William has played a key role in raising awareness and support for the organization. In the first five days of its appeal, the charity raised over $19.5 million, eventually amassing an incredible $200 million (£160 million). These funds have been instrumental in aiding hospital staff, volunteers, and patients during the ongoing health crisis. During his visit, Prince William spoke with healthcare workers and volunteers, acknowledging their dedication to caring for others. He emphasized the importance of mental health support for those in the medical profession, noting that NHS staff often prioritize their patients over their own well-being. He stressed the need for structured mental health breaks to prevent burnout and ensure long-term sustainability in the profession.
Kensington Palace later stated that nearly two-thirds of NHS staff have benefited from these funds through counseling services, designated rest areas, and community support projects. The Prince and Princess of Wales had previously visited the hospital in December 2020 during a 1,250-mile tour across the UK, checking in on various communities affected by the crisis. Today, 90% of the funded projects continue to operate in hospitals like the Royal Berkshire, including the Oasis Health and Well-being Center and its adjoining garden.
During his time at the hospital, Prince William toured the well-being center and its outdoor space, learning about the various initiatives designed to support NHS staff in maintaining their physical and mental health. He met with healthcare professionals who have benefited from these programs and spoke with those who worked at the hospital during the height of the pandemic. His visit also served as a moment to honor the memory of frontline workers who lost their lives during the crisis. Dr. Peter Tun and nurse Julie Edward, both members of the health trust, passed away due to COVID-19, and trees have been planted in the hospital’s garden in their memory. NHS Charities Together, where Princess Catherine also serves as a patron, has further contributed by co-funding one of the UK's first long COVID clinics, offering specialized care for individuals suffering from the lasting effects of the virus.
