Prince William’s role as Patron of youth homelessness charity Centrepoint has always been “close to his heart”, according to royal commentators. The Duke of Cambridge “inherited” the duty from his mother, Diana, Princess of Wales, who was the patron from 1992 until her death in 1997. Paul Noblet from the organisation spoke to HeirPod about the future king’s personal connection and involvement with the charity.
Host Omid Scobie asked: “Centrepoint was the first charity that William inherited from his mother.
“I’d say probably because of that it’s always been one that he’s held especially close to his heart.
“Can you tell us about the legacy of Diana’s involvement with Centrepoint?”
Mr Noblet replied: “The Duke of Cambridge was himself only in his early to mid-teens when he was first brought by his mother to come and find out about some of the issues affecting young homeless people.”
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He continued: “I think that really has left a great mark on him.
“He does galas, lowkey events and private visits, which he does a lot for the benefit of the young people we support.
“Whilst some will be happy to talk to the media and be filmed and photographed, they will open up a lot more and talk in a much more intimate setting with the Duke if the cameras are away.
“So that’s something that’s really important for him.”
As children, William and Prince Harry made private visits to Centrepoint services with Diana.
The organisation provides housing and support for young people in London and across the UK.
They aim to give homeless young people a future and put an end to youth homelessness.
A number of photos released by a similar charity, The Passage, revealed that the Duke of Cambridge made three surprise visits to a homeless shelter before the Christmas holidays.
The images showed William speaking with homeless residents, packing food, working alongside volunteers and serving hot meals for people.
