Today it was announced that Prince William has officially become Patron of the College of Paramedics, and to mark this he visited Birmingham to attend the College’s inaugural Emergency and Critical Care Conference.
During his visit, The Prince met with senior leaders of the College and speakers from the day as well as paramedics from a range of fields before attending two sessions at the conference focused on trauma critical care and the techniques used during Search and Rescue helicopter missions.
William is a former RAF Search and Rescue helicopter pilot, who participated in 150 operations between 2010 and September 2013. He also worked as an Air Ambulance pilot for 2 years from 2015 to 2017. One of the paramedics he met during his visit to the Conference was was Ed Griffiths, who served with him at RAF Valley in Anglesey.
William heard from Paramedics all over the UK, who told him about how morale was low among them as hospitals were being flooded with patients, which was having an effect on the patients too. Gary Clarke from Belfast explain how paramedics were having to spend more time with patients in ambulances.
The Prince gave a speech to the delegates gathered, telling them ‘I am so pleased to be standing here as the College of Paramedics’ new Patron and to have the opportunity to join your first ever Emergency and Critical Care conference.’ He spoke about his flying work, saying how “my time in these roles allowed me to better understand the day-to-day challenges that you all face and gave me the lifelong motivation to do all I can to support your community. It is not just another job.”
He concluded the speech by telling them that “we will never forget your unwavering and brave work” and that he was “so proud to become Patron of an organisation which is committed to supporting the mental health and wellbeing of paramedics and fostering an environment where all paramedics can thrive.”
Prince William’s new patronage reflects his continued work and respect for the UK’s medical and emergency services community. Over the years, His Royal Highness has seen first-hand the expertise and decision-making skills that paramedics need and the contribution they make to the healthcare system.
Paramedics and those in the emergency services are adaptable, multiskilled and crucially, know how to work under pressure.
Proudly becoming Patron of @ParamedicsUK. It’s been a privilege to spend time today with first responders whose work saves lives day in, day out. pic.twitter.com/66OVKximZ2
— The Prince and Princess of Wales (@KensingtonRoyal) January 15, 2025
Tracy Nicholls OBE, Chief Executive of the College of Paramedics said: ‘We are absolutely delighted to welcome His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales as our new Patron. His remarkable achievements and unwavering commitment to the health and wellbeing of our members and all emergency service personnel align perfectly with our mission to shape the future of the paramedic profession. His unique understanding of the role paramedics play in benefiting society will be instrumental in this partnership. Having his support will undoubtedly raise the profile of our work, and that of our members, and inspire others to join us in making a difference. This is a transformative moment for the College of Paramedics, and we look forward to the exciting opportunities ahead under his patronage.’
Football was also on William’s mind, as his team Aston Villa are set to take on Everton in the Premier League later tonight. Villa are situated in Birmingham and William told attendees of the conference “and for any fellow Villa fans with us today – I look forward to celebrating our win over Everton later”.
Prince William met Aston Villa fans at a pub in Birmingham. (Victoria Ward/Twitter)
Following the Conference visit, William dropped in on New Street Station, a Wetherspoons, to have a drink with some fellow Aston Villa supporters. The Prince bought a round of beers, choosing a Bulmers for himself, and spent some time chatting about the club, transfer season, and upcoming games as well as tonight’s.
He told those gathered that Prince George is also a Villa supporter, but that he didn’t want all three of them to be. Steve Jones, who was among the group, said William was hopeful about beating Everton but was wary of new manager syndrome. Everton have just gotten a new manager, David Moyes, who had actually managed them previously.
So a busy day will be followed by a busy night of nail biting football for Prince William.
