Prince William and Kate Middleton say supporting mental health of key workers is ‘top priority’

Duke and Duchess of Cambridge announce new project to help mental wellbeing of key workers

(AFP via Getty Images)

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have launched a new initiative to support the mental health of key workers on the front lines of the coronavirus outbreak.

The project, titled “Our Frontline” will combine one-to-one support with online resources made available to NHS workers, carers, emergency services personnel and other key workers whose psychological wellbeing has been compromised by the pandemic, including teachers and bus drivers.

Prince William and Kate Middleton’s charitable organisation, the Royal Foundation, will formally back the project.

In a statement announcing the launch, Prince William explained that supporting the mental health of key workers during the pandemic will remain a “top priority” for the couple in the months ahead.

The duke said: “Over the past few weeks, millions of frontline workers across the UK have put their physical and mental health on the line to protect us all during the coronavirus pandemic.

“Every day, they confront traumatic situations at the same time as having to contend with their own worries about the risks to themselves and their families.

“That takes a real toll, and as I’ve seen for myself through my work with the air ambulance, without the right support at the right time, the challenges they face will only be greater.

“Catherine and I, together with the Royal Foundation, will do all we can to support Our Frontline. This work will be our top priority for the months ahead.”

The new project comes after the couple spoke to children of key workers on a “virtual” tour via Zoom.

Earlier this month, the duke and duchess took part in a video call with pupils and teachers at Casterton Primary Academy, which is near Burnley General Hospital.

The school has remained open to allow the children of key workers and other vulnerable students to continue attending school amid the nationwide lockdown.

Kate told the children and staff members: “To you and everyone who is in during this time, it must be such a relief for all the parents who are key workers to know that their children have the normality and structure and they’ve got a safe place for them to be.”