Prince William embarked on the second day of his Homewards campaign, visiting Northern Ireland and Scotland in his efforts to combat homelessness.
Homewards is a comprehensive five-year plan aimed at tackling homelessness by fostering collaboration among businesses, local authorities, and organizations. The initial focus is on six locations, each receiving up to £500,000 in funding to eradicate homelessness.
One of the chosen locations is Hosford House in Belfast, a facility that has been serving the community for over two decades. East Belfast MP, Gavin Robinson, expressed his delight at the selection of Hosford House, highlighting the pressing issue of homelessness and housing stress in the city. Robinson emphasized the significance of Prince William's long-term commitment and investment in providing hope amid prevalent homelessness.
During his visit, Prince William engaged with charity representatives and witnessed the implementation of initiatives designed to address homelessness in Belfast. Rev. Brian Anderson from the East Belfast Mission shared an anecdote about Prince Philip with his grandson, Prince William. Anderson recounted a moment when Prince Philip, known for his frankness, suggested simply giving money to support the cause. Prince William, amused by the story, likened it to his grandfather's character.
Prince William also interacted with the public during a walkabout, posing for photographs, offering hugs, and petting dogs that came to greet him. Well-wisher Sam Sloan, who shook Prince William's hand twice, described him as a "smashing fella" and likened him to Princess Diana.
After leaving Belfast, Prince William, known as the Duke of Rothesay in Scotland, traveled to Aberdeen. He visited the Tillydrone Community Campus, where he acknowledged the efforts of nurses in preventing homelessness. He sought further insight into how Tillydrone's services support individuals before they reach the point of homelessness due to health-related reasons.
Addressing the nurses, Prince William praised their ambition and the exceptional work they are doing. He emphasized the significance of support services, highlighting that homelessness encompasses more than individuals sleeping on the streets.
During his visit, the Duke of Rothesay participated in a cooking class, engaged with an arts group, played games with older children, and joined a storytelling and sing-along session for toddlers.
The final leg of the Homewards campaign launch brought Prince William to Sheffield in England, where further initiatives and engagements are expected. Photo by Office of U.S. Ambassador to U.K., Wikimedia commons.