A message from the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge encouraging everyone to use small acts of kindness to “lift someone out of loneliness” has been broadcast on every radio station in the UK.
Played on over 500 stations William and Kate’s mental health minute focuses on the impact the COVID pandemic has had on people, and how it has left many feeling isolated.
Recorded as part of Mental Health Awareness week, Prince William said: “The past two years have really reminded us of the importance of human relationships.”
Kate added: “So if you think someone you know may be feeling lonely, just give them a ring, send them a text or knock on their door.”
Created by Radiocentre and The Royal Foundation, the Cambridge’s charitable trust, the recording also aims to highlight the support available through the website Better Health – Every Mind Matters which offers advice to tackle loneliness, with NHS-approved tips to help people look after their mental health.
New data from the Community Life Survey reveals loneliness is highest for young people aged 16-24, making them the loneliest of all age groups, with one in 10 (11%) of young people more likely to feel lonely often or always compared to every other age group.
A recent poll by YouGov also reveals young people aged 18-24 are the least comfortable asking for help, with 6 in 10 (59%) saying they wouldn’t feel comfortable asking for help if they felt lonely.
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The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have supported the Mental Health Minute in Mental Health Awareness Week for the past five years.
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This is the first time they have read the entire message, allowing them to reach an estimated 20 million listeners.
The royal message about the impact of COVID, comes after the government announced that the inquiry into the pandemic will look at how mental health, children and young people were affected.
