On October 10, 2024, The Princess of Wales made her first public appearance following the completion of her cancer treatment, accompanying Prince William on a visit to Southport. The community had been affected by a tragic knife attack in July, resulting in the loss of three children during a dance class.
As advocates for mental health support for emergency responders, Their Royal Highnesses met with three representatives from the North West Ambulance Service and members of the fire and police services, all of whom played crucial roles in responding to the incident. Representatives from occupational health services, who have been providing ongoing support to affected staff, were also in attendance.
While such incidents are fortunately infrequent, their emotional and psychological impact can be profound and enduring. All warmly welcomed the visit by the Prince and Princess of Wales.
Salman Desai, Acting Chief Executive, who participated in the meeting, remarked, “The July attack has had a profound impact on our staff, particularly those who were directly involved. Over the past few months, we have provided comprehensive wellbeing support, including both in-house resources and external post-trauma care, for all team members who responded that day, regardless of their role. The visit from The Prince and Princess of Wales today was deeply appreciated as he extended his support and gratitude to the emergency services. Though this incident was incredibly challenging for our staff, our deepest sympathies remain with the families who lost loved ones and those who are still recovering.”
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