As she prepares to take on a new royal role, Kate Middleton has praised “passionate” charity workers and volunteers who have dedicated their time to helping people affected by addiction.
Kate has been named a patron of The Forward Trust, a charity that helps people break free from addiction and crime.
The Forward Trust and Action on Addiction merged last month, and Kate has been a patron of both organizations since 2012, one of her first royal jobs after marrying Prince William and joining the royal family.
Action on Addiction has a nationwide network of community support groups and resources dedicated to providing the best addiction recovery care possible.
The charities merged to deal with increased demand caused by lockdowns that put a strain on services.
The charities have now merged to help even more families affected by addiction.
Kate issued a heartfelt statement following the announcement, expressing her commitment to helping people overcome addiction and supporting their families.
“I am thrilled that The Forward Trust and Action on Addiction have joined forces to help more people, families, and children overcome addiction,” she said.
“I’ve had the honor of being a patron of Action on Addiction for nine years, and I’ve visited The Forward Trust and HMP Send on several occasions to see their work.”
“I am continually struck by the staff and volunteers’ passion, expertise, and commitment, and indeed, it was the conversations I had with individuals and families affected by addiction that have been a major driving force in my ongoing work on early childhood,” the Duchess said.
Kate explained that she wanted to focus on the connection between early childhood trauma and later-life addiction issues in order to create a “happier, healthier, and more nurturing society.”
“We are deeply honoured that The Duchess of Cambridge has joined the charity as our Patron,” said David Bernstein, Chairman of The Forward Trust.
“Her reaffirmation of her commitment to removing the stigma surrounding addiction so that more people can seek help will have a significant impact.
“The pandemic has had a devastating effect on addiction; rates of harmful drinking and drug-related deaths are at an all-time high, and gambling addiction is on the rise.”
“All of this is happening at a time when treatment options are becoming more limited.
“By merging with Action on Addiction, we are demonstrating our commitment to helping meet this demand.”
