Princess Kate has released a new statement just days before her appearance with Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis.
The Princess of Wales, as Patron of The Forward Trust, has pledged her support for this year’s Addiction Awareness Week, which runs from Saturday, November 30 to December 7.
In a new statement, Kate, 42, said: “As Patron of the Forward Trust, I am delighted to once again support Addiction Awareness Week.
“It has been heartening to see that progress is still being made to end the stigma surrounding those battling addiction.
Princess Kate releases new statement just days before appearance with George, Charlotte and Louis
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“For too long, many have suffered in silence, harbouring feelings of shame and guilt about their condition, despite their vulnerability.
“Everyone suffering from addiction is another human being, with a story of their own, which many of us don’t understand or see.”
The Princess of Wales added: “It is not our place to judge or criticise, we must take the time to sit by someone’s side, learning the values of love and empathy.
“Being a shoulder to cry on or an ear to listen, these simple acts of kindness are crucial in breaking down the misunderstandings that so many face.
The Princess of Wales, as Patron of The Forward Trust, has pledged her support for this year’s Addiction Awareness Week
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“Addiction is not a choice. It is a serious mental health condition that could affect any one of us.
“By acting with humility and compassion we can all make a difference and support those who are suffering.”
The mother-of-three concluded: “Many charities up and down the country are guiding individuals and families through the toughest of times.
“But they cannot do it alone. It is up to each and every one of us to change the way we think about and consider the many people coping with addiction. Because recovery is possible.”
Kate visiting HMP High Down in Surrey in 2023 to learn about how the Forward Trust charity is supporting those in criminal justice system to recover from addiction
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Kate talking to families of recovered addicts at the launch of the Forward Trust’s Taking Action on Addiction campaign in 2021
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Kate’s statement comes just days before the “Together At Christmas” carol concert on December 6, due to be held at Westminster Abbey.
The Princess of Wales has hosted the concert every year since 2021, and is supported by senior members of the Royal Family.
In 2023, Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis stole the show as they accompanied their parents to the carol concert.
The trio are expected to do the same next week as they step out to support their mother, who has spent most of 2024 recuperating from her chemotherapy treatment.