The Cambridges Praise NHS Staff, Share Concerns Amid COVID-19 & Homeschooling

In keeping with their efforts to support mental health initiatives especially at this incredibly trying time, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge appeared on the BBC Breakfast Club this morning via Zoom from their Norfolk home, Anmer Hall. William and Kate encouraged people to communicate using online tools and praised the work of NHS Every Mind Matters.

William said: "Staying connected, staying positive and being able to talk to friends and family is so crucial." Kate praised those in the NHS and on the front lines: "The NHS and the frontline workers are doing the most extraordinary job and that’s really come to the forefront in the last few weeks and I think it’s going to dramatically change how we all value and see our frontline workers. While that's hugely important we mustn't forget our mental well-being as well and making sure you're reaching out to those people around you that you have access to - even if it's over the phone or online to really make sure you have those conversations." William added: "I really hope at the end of this we are a bigger global community than we've been before."

The couple laughed when asked about home schooling, with Kate revealing they've kept it going throughout the school holidays. Kate said: "It's been ups and downs probably like lots of families. George is much older than Louis but they are aware. You don't want to scare them and make it too overwhelming, I think it is important to acknowledge it in age appropriate ways. The children have got such stamina, I don't know how, honestly. You get to the end of the day, you write down a list of all the things you've done in the day. You sort of pitch a tent, you take the tent down again, cook, bake, you get to the end of the day - they've had a lovely time but it is amazing how much they can cram into one day."

More from the BBC:

'Prince William said there was a concern people might think they were "not worthy of support" because of the pressure on services during the coronavirus pandemic. "It's important that other people aren't forgotten and those who do need help, and do need support, and haven't necessarily ever had to think about their mental well-being, start to do that in this weird climate we're in," he said.

During the interview, the duke and duchess also praised NHS workers and said they were making the nation proud with their "stoicism and determination" to get through the pandemic.

But Prince William said some staff were understandably anxious and it was important not to alienate those who "worry" and "are scared going to work every single day".

He said NHS workers often have to absorb the pain and loneliness of coronavirus patients and "take it home to their families. We're not superhuman, any of us. So to be able to manage those emotions and that feeling is going to take some time after all this is over as well."'

William spoke about feeling worried for his father who contracted COVID-19 and his concerns for the Queen and Prince Philip:

“I was a little bit worried. But my father has had many chest infections, colds, things like that over the years, so I thought to myself that if anybody is going to be able to beat this, it is going to be him.

"And actually he was very lucky, he had mild symptoms. I had a lot of good reassurance from doctors and  friends of mine who said ‘Listen, the days he is on when we found out about it, he is probably past the worst of it.’

"And obviously speaking to him made me feel more reassured that he was OK. But again at that age you do worry a bit more. " One of the hardest things for Prince Charles, the Duke said, was not being able to go outside. "I think the hardest thing he found was having to stop and not be able to go and get a bit of fresh air and go for a walk," he said. "He's a mad walker. He loves his walking.

"So I think he found it quite difficult, especially also, I think, with his mental health, being stuck inside and not being able to go for walks." He added: “I think very carefully about my grandparents who are the age they are at. "We are doing everything we can to make sure that they are isolated away and protected from this.

"But it does worry me, you know, what's going to happen to a lot of the vulnerable people and the high risk people who are going to potentially have to isolate away for quite some time, and the impact that's going to have on them and on families up and down the country having to do that."

The conversation was also an opportunity to highlight an inspiring man who is fast becoming a national treasure in Britain. Captain Tom Moore, Second World War veteran, originally pledged to raise £1,000 for the fight against the virus by walking lengths of his family garden ahead of his 100th birthday at the end of this month. His efforts have touched the nation and donations have now surpassed over £18 million. There is talk of a much deserved knighthood for the man who has captured the hearts of so many. Indeed, he's already caught the eye of the royals. Both William and Camilla have written him congratulatory letters and William has made a private donation. Speaking today, the Prince described Captain Moore as "an absolute legend". He added: "It's incredible, I did see it on the news the other night and I thought, good on him. It's amazing and what I love also is that he's a 99-year-old war vet who's been around a long time, knows everything, and it's wonderful that everyone kind of has been inspired by his story and his determination." Touched by William's words, Mr Moore described him as "my super prince". If you would like to donate to Captain Moore's wonderful effort, please click here.

The Duchess wore her Arket Merino Marinière Jumper which she debuted for the launch of the King's Cup regatta last May. On the day, Kate completed the nautical look with L.K. Bennett Parker trousers, Emmy London Josie pumps, her red Emmy London clutch, and sapphire and diamond earrings.

Kensington Palace shared a selection of tips via Twitter:

1. Daily routines & set yourself goals – even small ones can help with structure

2. Look after your body; try to eat healthy, drink water & exercise regularly

3. Try maintain a regular sleeping pattern

4. Do things you enjoy or try learning something new

5. Stay connected with friends & family via telephone & video calls, or social media;

6. Talk about your worries with someone you trust, or try a helpline

7. Acknowledge difficult feelings and try and manage unhelpful thoughts

8. Try and find time to relax, and try simple relaxation techniques

9. Keep your mind active. Read, write, play games, do crossword puzzles, drawing, cooking and painting

Additionally, the Duke and Duchess have narrated a new video for NHS Every Mind Matters entitled 'Now, More Than Ever' against the backdrop of James Bay's much-loved song 'Hold Back the River'. It will be broadcast on all national television stations on Monday. The couple said: "All over the country people are staying at home to protect the NHS and save lives. It’s not always easy. We can feel frustrated, miss loved ones or get anxious. So now, more than ever, Every Mind Matters. There are things we can all do to look after our mental well-being at this time. Every Mind Matters can help get you started with your NHS online plan."

****************** 

Last week, William and Kate joined experts from mental health charities and Shout CEO Victoria Hornby for a round-table call to discuss the sector's response to the pandemic. Highlighting the importance of encouraging people to seek help, Victoria said: "I think it’s really important to put out messages saying that we do want to hear from those facing mental health challenges and that they deserve the support they would require at any other time." Action on Addiction's Graham Beech said: "The round-table was a crucial discussion. We are concerned by what we are hearing daily about the many adults, children and families whose lives are already severely affected by addiction and who are now struggling even more with the physical and social restrictions of the coronavirus lockdown."

Kate also wrote a letter of support to her patronage Action on Addiction, saying: "I'm writing to tell you how much I am thinking of you all at Action on Addiction at this hugely difficult time."

It's heartening to see so many ongoing efforts during these challenging times and fun to get an update on the Cambridges' homeschooling :) Wishing you all a lovely weekend.