Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge was back to work yesterday, as she undertook two engagements, visiting the Anna Freud Centre, followed by a trip to the child bereavement centre with her husband, Prince William.
The Duchess of Cambridge visited the Anna Freud Centre for families (@KensingtonRoyal)
After celebrating her birthday in Norfolk, attending church with The Queen on Sunday, the Duchess heard the stories of women who have battled problems like depression or difficult upbringings from those who attend the Anna Freud Centre for Children and Families in Holloway, London.
For the past five years, the centre’s early years parenting unit in Holloway, north London, has been supporting families who are at risk of their children being taken into care due to such issues.
Kate, patron of the centre, met mothers who had completed an intensive treatment programme with the Anna Freud team. She admitted that ‘parenting is tough’ but despite the experiences of these women, and the lack of initial support, “I find it extraordinary how you’ve managed actually, so really well done”.
As the mother-of-two chatted to Amber, 19, who has is currently using the centre, her son was bemused by the Royal guest: “What’s this strange woman?” Amber asked her 18-month-old, indicating Catherine, who giggled in response.
Later, The Duke of Cambridge joined his wife as they spent time at Stratford’s child bereavement centre, which is celebrating its first birthday in service.
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge hear about child bereavement centre and their work (@KensingtonRoyal)
Child Bereavement UK was launched in 1997 and now boasts Prince William as its patron, to help publicise their work supporting families who have lost children, as well as children who have lost parents. The Duke’s mother, Diana, Princess of Wales was a keen supporter.
The Duchess of Cambridge plays with a toddler during her visit to the Child Bereavement centre (@KensingtonRoyal)
William cut a cake to mark the occasion, after the Royal visitors heard from those grateful for the facility’s support during a difficult time, and enjoyed some play time with the children there.
William and Kate cut a cake to celebrate the bereavement centre’s first birthday (@KensingtonRoyal)
