The Duchess of Edinburgh has been announced as the new Royal Patron of Mothers’ Union, a role of great significance as the charity approaches its 150th anniversary in 2026.
Sophie follows in the footsteps of her late mother-in-law, Queen Elizabeth II, who was a dedicated patron of the organisation for many years, as was the Queen Mother before her. The first royal patron of Mothers’ Union was Queen Victoria in 1876, the year the movement was founded by Mary Sumner to support women, families, and communities.
The Duchess of Edinburgh has become Patron of Mothers’ Union. (Buckingham Palace)
Mothers’ Union is a global Christian charity with a strong emphasis on family, community development, literacy, and parenting support programs. The organisation has millions of grassroots members who work tirelessly to bring hope and practical assistance to those in need.
The Duchess of Edinburgh has long been committed to strengthening families and communities, making her an ideal advocate for the Mothers’ Union’s mission. Her work aligns closely with the charity’s values, particularly in addressing challenges faced by women, conflict survivors, and vulnerable families.
Sophie heard how Mothers’ Union supports those who seek its services. (Buckingham Palace)
In commemorating the announcement of becoming the new Patron, the Duchess saw ‘English for Women‘, a Mothers’ Union project in Chelmsford.
The project aims to reduce the isolation faced by those in local communities who experience language barriers in their everyday lives, with the initiative providing safe and welcome spaces. Many of these individuals are fleeing conflict or have faced challenging situations.
The ‘English for Women’ project, holds close ties to Sophie’s work in supporting the Women, Peace and Security agenda, which highlights the positive role women play in conflict resolution and building peace. During the visit, the Duchess received a briefing from Mothers’ Union’s international team on their ongoing efforts to protect and support women in conflict zones, reinforcing the charity’s global mission.
The Duchess participated in a call with Mothers’ Union’s international team on their ongoing efforts to protect and support women in conflict zones. (Buckingham Palace)
Judy Halls, who is a longtime Mothers’ Union member and volunteer session leader with ‘English for Women’, said that ‘the Mothers’ Union was created when women lacked equality, confidence, and opportunities. We’ve stayed true to those principles, which is why English for Women aligns so closely with our values.
She highlighted the transformative effect of the program, noting ‘often the women will start off hesitant, but over time they grow in confidence. Our greatest success is when, after attending the sessions, they have the skills and knowledge to thrive in the UK. That’s something Mothers’ Union founder Mary Sumner would be proud of, just as we are today’.
The Duchess of Edinburgh in Chelmsford. (Buckingham Palace)
Today’s announcement was welcomed by Kathleen Snow, Mothers’ Union Worldwide President, who said it was an ‘honour’ that Sophie had accepted the role. Snow stated that “The Duchess will bring strength and inspiration for the work we all do. We are especially grateful for Her Royal Highness’s experience and commitment to championing the most marginalised, particularly those who are impacted by violence and abuse in conflict, a cause we are passionate about, because conflict disproportionately affects women and children. As a woman-led movement, we also greatly welcome The Duchess’s commitment to promoting the development of women into leadership.’
The Duchess of Edinburgh’s appointment as Royal Patron of Mothers’ Union underscores the enduring relationship between the Royal Family and this vital organisation. As the charity prepares for its 150th anniversary in 2026, Sophie’s patronage is expected to bring renewed focus to its mission, helping to uplift communities, support families, and empower women worldwide.
