Why this Irish mental health charity was an essential stop for Kate Middleton

We tagged along as Prince William and Kate Middleton visited a young people’s mental health charity in Dublin

Prince William and Kate Middleton visited Jigsaw in Temple Bar, Dublin 2 today, arriving at the venue at approximately 10:30 am.

The charity, which is dedicated to improving young people’s mental health across Ireland, provides a range of primary care services to people aged between 12 and 25.

An important cause for Kate 

Kate Middleton has always been vocal about supporting young people’s mental health, and so this visit was one of significant importance to her. Just last month, the Duchess of Cambridge penned an open letter to mark the start of Children’s Mental Health Week, saying how it’s an incredibly brave thing for a young person to ask for help.

“For many children today, the world can feel a scary and daunting place,” she wrote. “While we might not always feel brave inside, even the smallest act — such as sharing a worry or asking for help — can be incredibly courageous. Helping children to feel confident about seeking support can have a transformational impact on their lives.”

“Being able to try new things and push ourselves outside of our comfort zone are important skills that can build children’s resilience and self-esteem,” she said. “Learning these skills early in life can give children tools to cope with future challenges they may face in adulthood.”

While the duchess says great improvements have been made, she notes there is “is still much more to do,” adding, “I’d love schools and families across the country to take part in the week to help children and young people to ‘find their brave’.”

During the visit to Jigsaw, she and Prince William spoke with some of the teenagers who have benefitted from the services here, as well as the staff who help to transform their lives.

Afterwards, the couple went outside where they were shown various artworks across the Jigsaw building. Here they chatted with staff about the importance of mental health services for young people and the life-changing impact places like Jigsaw can have.

Photo by Grace McGettigan

Next, William and Kate will visit Extern (a leading social justice charity that enables individuals, young people and families to overcome their challenges to achieve positive change), and the Marine Institute in Howth (a global leader in ocean knowledge that empowers Irish people to safeguard and harness our ocean wealth). Other stops on today’s tour include Teagasc in Co Meath and MoLI in Dublin.

Photos (unless stated otherwise) by Julien Behal Photography

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