On Thursday, Kate Middleton and Prince William made their second joint appearance, visiting Clitheroe Community Hospital in Lancashire. And the royal couple got to meet a cute new team member!
Prince William and Kate visited the hospital to learn about the problems encountered by rural health providers in the midst of the epidemic, as well as how NHS Charities Together is assisting frontline workers’ mental health. In December 2020, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge became joint patrons of NHS Charities Together.
The Cambridges visited GPs, nurses, and others who work in the community to learn about their experiences and to congratulate them on continuing to provide excellent care for the aged and unwell, both in the hospital and in the rural community, despite service levels being at an all-time high.
Over £300,000 in funding from the charity has helped build wellbeing services for over 9,000 employees at East Lancashire Hospitals Trust, including break-out areas, wellness packages, and therapies.
This grant will help Clitheroe construct a staff wellbeing space, among other things.
Alfie, an apricot cockapoo puppy who will be trained as a therapy dog to support patients and colleagues at the hospital, was introduced to William and Kate.
Kate hailed the puppy as “very sweet,” but added, “Our dog is going to be very sad,” after a hug.
The Cambridges are known to be dog enthusiasts, and Lupo, an English Cocker Spaniel, was their prior pet. The adorable puppy passed away in November 2020, and William and Kate shared the news on social media.
James Middleton, Kate’s brother, gave the family another spaniel in 2020, an eight-month-old puppy whose name has yet to be announced.
The Cambridges spoke to nurses at Clitheroe Community Hospital while wearing face masks.
William said to his coworkers, “We appreciate everything you’ve done. I’m not sure there are enough words to express our gratitude for everything you’ve done.”
Because of his service as an air ambulance pilot, he stated he had a special connection with the crew.
Clinical lead for the intensive home support service, Lisa Kay, said: “That was wonderful to hear, since it’s not every day that you have a royal visit to thank you for your service. It’s given us a significant lift in morale.”
