‘I was lucky’ – Kate gives speech at headteachers conference for children’s mental health

Today, The Duchess of Cambridge attended Place2Be’s Headteacher’s Conference continuing her work with children’s mental health, and addressed the conference speaking of her ‘lucky’ childhood.

Headteachers from around the UK met to discuss the key issues and latest thinking on the role of a child’s school in their mental health, as well as how they can intervene early and help build children’s emotional resilience.

The Duchess of Cambridge arriving at the Place2Be Headteacher Conference in London. Picture by Stephen Lock / i-Images

The Duchess of Cambridge arriving at the Place2Be Headteacher Conference in London. Picture by Stephen Lock / i-Images

Catherine, 33, has made two speeches in two days, seeming to prove the idea she is to make more addresses in future. She said:

“I often get asked why I decided to spend time highlighting the mental health of children. I imagine my answer might be similar to many of yours. I know that I was lucky. My parents and teachers provided me with a wonderful and secure childhood where I always knew I was loved, valued and listened to.

“But of course many children are not so lucky. Since beginning my work in areas like addiction, for example, I have seen time and time again that the roots of poor mental health in adulthood are almost always present in unresolved childhood challenges,” the Duchess continued.

“I am sure you will agree that all children deserve time, attention and love from the adults in their lives. These basic qualities are so much more valuable than the always changing material and social concerns that can seem so important to young people.

“As today’s theme reminds us, many children – even those from stable, happy homes – are finding that their heads are just too full. It is our duty, as parents and as teachers, to give all children the space to build their emotional strength and provide a strong foundation for their future.”

The conference was hosted by Place2Be, of which Kate is patron. The charity works with Action on Addiction, another of Catherine’s patronages, on M-PACT Plus, to support families dealing with the hidden harm of drug or alcohol addiction, supported by The Royal Foundation.

Last night, the Duchess attended the Foster Excellence awards.

Catherine chats with schoolchildren upon her arrival at the Place2Be Headteacher Conference. Picture by Stephen Lock / i-Images

Catherine chats with schoolchildren upon her arrival at the Place2Be Headteacher Conference. Picture by Stephen Lock / i-Images

The Duchess wore a grey Matthew Williamson peplum dress, wuth turquoise and gold beading, worn first back in 2012.

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1 comment

Karen Pottruff Sat 21 November, 2015 - 4:36 pm

I enjoy viewing The Duke & Duchess’s work as they travel about England. I especially like the fact that the Duchess supports good mental health in children, so important.

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