The Cambridges Mark Shout's First Anniversary

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge marked the first anniversary of Shout, the UK's first 24/7 crisis text line which the couple launched together with the Duke and Duchess of Sussex last year. It's one of several legacy projects resulting from the hugely successful Heads Together campaign. The team at the Royal Foundation contacted Crisis Text Line in the US to begin the process of bringing their successful model to the UK. It marked the Foundation's largest initiative to date with £3 million invested. During the COVID-19 crisis, resources like Shout have been a lifeline for so many, and their model lends itself perfectly to supporting people in a time when so many charities and services have had to close their doors.

To mark the anniversary, William and Kate spoke to five of Shout's volunteers about their experiences over the past twelve months and how their work has been altered during the pandemic. Again, throughout the entire process with the fledgling organisation, it's been heartening to see so many volunteers coming forward and putting their hands up to say, "I want to help". The text line currently has over 1,800 volunteers who are available 24/7 to offer guidance during a time when many are struggling in different ways.

Kate asked volunteers: "Have the calls changed in any way since lockdown? Has there been a shift or has it just been an increase in numbers?" One volunteer discussed the effect of the "pause in life" and difficulties dealing with strained relationships, especially in abusive situations. Another volunteer revealed healthcare staff have been in touch, expressing worry and anxiety about the lack of PPE and not seeing their families. William asked: "Has it changed the way you think about volunteering? Has it changed your views on mental health in any way?" Kate added: "What sort of things help? Is it reassurance? Is it purely having these conversations?" The couple heard about the importance of being heard, especially for those in isolated living situations. William touched on the stigma which still exists and asked if volunteers feel enough people are being reached.

Hello! reports:

'Crisis volunteer Alexis said: "The unique support that Shout is able to provide to people in crisis is crucial at all times, but now more than ever it can serve as a lifeline to those most in need - whatever they're going through, big or small. Without the hundreds of volunteers who give up their time to provide help and reassurance to others, the service simply wouldn't be able to function. That is why it was so great to hear the Duke and Duchess speak so positively not only about Shout's work but also encouraging people to get support with their mental health. We want to send a very clear message to anyone who is looking for someone to reach out to – we are here to listen to you anytime, anywhere about any problem."

Below, the Duke and Duchess attending a Shout Crisis Volunteer celebration event at the Troubadour White City Theatre last November. It certainly feels a lifetime ago now doesn't it? On that day it was revealed volunteers have had 145,000 conversations via text with people in crisis, exchanging six million messages.

The Duchess was stylish for the event in her Smythe blazer, Joseph Cady slim pants and her Gianvito Rossi pumps.

Since then the number of conversations taken by volunteers has risen exponentially to 300,000.

This week marks our one year anniversary! In 12 months Shout has become a vital national service with 1800 trained volunteers taking more than 300,000 conversations helping people go from a moment of crisis to calm. Today, we take a look back all that has been achieved 💙 pic.twitter.com/e0bdzSbCmv

— Shout UK (@GiveUsAShout) May 11, 2020

If you are in the UK, you can contact Shout free of charge on all major mobile networks by texting 85258.

The eagle-eyed Heaven noticed Kate's white scalloped trim knitted cardigan is by Sandro.

The £155 piece features tonal stitching, a v-neck, three-quarter-length sleeves and copper-toned buttons.

For those searching for alternatives, Warehouse has a similar cardigan with a scalloped edge for £28 and Nordstrom offers a scalloped v neck sweater for $59.

It appears Kate accessorised with her Catherine Zoraida Fern earrings. There are several very nice Repli-Kates for the earring available at Etsy.

************

We also have an update on the summery Raey dress Kate wore for the launch of Hold Still.

The dress has been restocked at Matches Fashion in most sizes where it is reduced by 70%. Many thanks to the eagle-eyed team at Kate's Royal Closet.

Wishing you all a safe and happy weekend!