Kate Middleton Continues Princess Diana’s Legacy With Her New Patronage

Kate Middleton has embarked on her first “away” day in over a year with a solo visit to Wales. On Thursday, the Princess of Wales visited Tŷ Hafan Children’s Hospice in Sully, near Cardiff, as it was announced that she is to become their new patron.

Wearing a houndstooth-print dress from Zara, Princess Kate looked delighted to be back at work in what the palace has described as a “gradual return” to official engagements. She spent Thursday morning speaking with children, families and staff at Tŷ Hafan, which means “Haven House” in Welsh. Kate was overheard discussing “challenging” times for families as she spoke with parents whose children have received care from the hospice.

Sources say Kate was keen to visit the country as she and Prince William lived in Wales for several years when the Prince of Wales was training to be a pilot before and after their 2011 wedding.

The announcement of a new patronage is also significant for Kate who has long backed the work of children’s hospices. Before she met Prince William, she supported a local hospice in Berkshire and one of her earliest patronages was patron of East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices. She maintains a close relationship with the organization to this day.

At the heart of Tŷ Hafan is a commitment to providing holistic support, focusing on the physical, emotional, social and spiritual needs of the children in its care and their families. The organization is also focused on fostering connections, creating a feeling of community that ensures children and families feel more supported through their shared experiences.

Irfon Rees, Chief Executive of Tŷ Hafan, said, “As our Patron, Her Royal Highness will be an inspiration for children with life-shortening conditions and their families, our dedicated staff and volunteers and everyone who so generously supports us. No parent ever imagines that their child’s life will be short. Sadly this is the reality facing thousands of families in Wales. We can’t stop this happening, but together we can make sure that no one lives their child’s short life alone.”

The hospice has a long-standing connection with the Royal Family. King Charles, as Prince of Wales, was patron of Tŷ Hafan from 2001 and the position was previously held by Princess Diana while the charity was in its fundraising stage.

In what will be a busy day for the royal, Kate will also visit a textiles manufacturer to celebrate “excellence in Welsh textiles manufacturing – both of which are themes close to The Princess’ heart,” Kensington Palace said.