The Prince and Princess of Wales have penned a very personal letter following a meaningful visit last month.
Prince William and Kate wrote to Dame Kelly Homes, thanking her for joining them at the launch of the 'On Your Side' initiative at the Hill Dickinson Stadium in Liverpool in September.
The letter was addressed from "Catherine and I" and signed with the Prince's personal signature, recognising that discussing suicide prevention is "not always easy".
It read: "Catherine and I wanted to thank you for joining us at the 'On Your Side' launch event at the Hill Dickinson Stadium this month.
© Getty Images"We really appreciate you giving your time so generously and for sharing your story as part of the day. It was so powerful to hear you speak so openly about your own experience and the importance of one simple conversation.
"I recognise articulating these experiences is not always easy, but your words will have helped countless people, both in the room and beyond. Thank you for your continued leadership and commitment to championing mental wellbeing and supporting young people."
Kelly, who spoke at the event, said receiving the letter had been a "pinch me" moment and thanked the royal couple's Kensington Palace social media account for such a "kind letter".
Prince William and Kate's visit to Liverpool
The Princess made a surprise appearance at the home of Everton football club last month, joining her husband for a surprise visit.
William wrote a foreword for the toolkit, called On Your Side, in which he said: "Through my work on mental health, I have met people whose lives have been changed forever by suicide.
"But I have also met people whose lives have been saved because someone stepped in to help. Each of their experiences has had a profound impact on me."
Double Olympic champion Dame Kelly spoke movingly about "reaching out" for help five years ago due to her “suicidal tendencies”.
© Andrew Parsons / Kensington PalaceKate looked elegant in a teal suit from Edeline Lee, which she previously wore on her solo trip to Italy, while William looked smart in a navy suit and blue tie – the football club's colours.
On Your Side offers advice on spotting warning signs, starting a conversation with someone suspected of having mental health issues, asking direct questions like "are you thinking about suicide?", and signposting them to further support.
The toolkit debunks the "myth" that talking about suicide promotes the idea, stating: "In fact, it opens up a conversation that can help someone feel heard, less alone, and more willing to seek support."
Prince William's upcoming outing
On Tuesday, the Prince of Wales is set for a solo visit to Somerset for flood-resilience engagements.
William will visit Ilminster to show how communities are often the first line of support during emergencies, and will launch a new toolkit, Ready Together, a National Emergencies Trust (NET) initiative, to help people prepare.
© Getty ImagesHe is also set to meet community leaders and local business owners, as well as members of the Ilminster Resilience Group.
He will then head to the Sweet Surprise cafe, which provides opportunities for adults with learning disabilities.
Finally, he will visit Ilminster Fire Station to meet representatives from Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service.
