The Duchess of Cambridge has
been named patron of the Maternal Mental Health Alliance, saying: “It’s
down to each and every one of us to support parents and caregivers.” In a
video message, Kate said she was “extremely proud” to take on her new
role, adding that “no one is immune to experiencing anxiety and
depression” while raising young children.
She said: “The birth of a
child is one of life’s greatest gifts. But it can also be one of the most
challenging times for many families and one that should not be faced
alone.”
The future Queen has
made early childhood development the cornerstone of her public work
and her new patronage was revealed during Maternal Mental Health Awareness
Week, which this year focuses on the importance of connection.
Kate said: “The past
couple of years have reminded us just how much we need each other and how vital
our relationships are to our long-term health and happiness. This starts in the
very earliest years of our lives when we need close and continuous care from
the people around us to nurture our development and ensure that we get the
right start in life.
“But we all know that
pregnancy, childbirth and the first months and years of a child’s life can be
hugely demanding. Parents often feel lonely and overwhelmed by these early
years.”
The Duchess said that around
20 per cent of women in the UK reported experiencing perinatal mental illness,
adding: “Sadly, we also know that many more are suffering in silence.
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“The birth of a child is one of life’s greatest gifts,” Kate said in the video
“No one is immune to
experiencing anxiety and depression during this time. It is crucial, therefore,
that all those who might be struggling are given the right support at the right
time, so that they’re able to share these feelings without fear of judgement
and can access the information, care and support they need to recover.”
The Maternal Mental Health
Alliance is a UK-wide charity bringing together more than 100 organisations to
ensure women and families facing perinatal mental health challenges get the
right care and support.
The Duchess said: “There
is plenty more to be done. And it’s down to each and every one of us to support
parents and carers, and all those who are raising children today. Because by
ensuring that the next generation of children can thrive, we can help to build
a stronger, healthier and more nurturing society which benefits us all.”
The Alliance’s chairman,
Luciana Berger, said: “The Duchess’ longstanding dedication to the Early
Years and keen interest in mental health marry beautifully with the Alliance’s
mission to ensure every mum, baby and family affected by perinatal mental
health problems can access the right care and support necessary. We look
forward to working with The Duchess to make this goal a reality for all.”
