Kate Discusses Feeling "Isolated" & Returns To HMP Send Women's Prison For Survey Launch

It was a busy and exciting day for the Duchess of Cambridge as she travelled to Cardiff and Surrey for events marking the launch of her early years project - 5 Big Questions. Speaking about the landmark survey Kate said: "Parents, carers and families are at the heart of caring for children in the formative years, so that is why I want to listen to them. As a parent I know how much we cherish the future health and happiness of our children. The Early Years are more crucial for future health and happiness than any other moment in our lifetime. I want to hear the key issues affecting our families and communities so I can focus my work on where it is needed most."

The Duchess was due to begin the packed day at LEYF Nursery in Southwark, for the nursery drop off, but had to cancel due to weather conditions which would have affected travel plans. Kate kicked off the day with a solo visit to Cardiff in Wales where she joined a baby sensory class at Ely and Careau Children’s Centre.

The survey "aims to spark the biggest ever conversation on early childhood that will ultimately help bring about positive, lasting change for generations to come." It's being conducted by Ipsos MORI on behalf of the Royal Foundation and will last for a month. The results will be revealed in March and will determine the next steps in Kate's early years work.

David Holmes, chief executive of Kate's patronage Family Action said:

"Every parent, carer and family wants the best for their child and raising the profile of the vital early years in a child’s life is work of national importance. The insight this survey will give the early years sector valuable direction in designing and delivering services and support which reflect what matters most to people."

More from The BBC:

'Kate Stanley, from the NSPCC, says the duchess's survey will "provide fascinating insight into how we think about the early years and it will be a vital source of information for the sector".

Asked about the value of the questionnaire, she told BBC Radio 4's Today programme on Tuesday the results of the survey would help inform "the kind of conversation we need to have" with parents about the importance of a child's early years.'

During a conversation with parents and staff, Kate opened up about feeling isolated during those first weeks in Anglesey with George. Over the years, the Duchess has touched on the difficulties she experienced as a new mother. Being back in Wales today for the survey launch felt like the right time to elaborate more.

Kate said: "It’s nice to be back in Wales. I was chatting to some of the mums. It was the first year and I’d just had George - William was still working with search and rescue and we came up here and I had a tiny, tiny baby in the middle of Anglesey. It was so isolated, so cut off. I didn’t have any family around, and he was doing night shifts. If only I had had a center like this." I think it's so important for the royals to share their own experiences, it also offers a wider understanding of Kate's interest in this area.

People reports:

'The mom of three was visiting the innovative Ely and Careau Children’s Centre in an economically challenged area of the Welsh capital, where parents can get support as well as enroll their kids into the kindergarten.

“I see amazing work you’re doing here in so many areas,” she said. “It’s just bringing it to light. The critical work you’re doing has a massive social — and economic — impact later down the years.

One of the center’s workers talked about how they tried to accommodate the concerns of parents who have questions raising their kids “this way or that way.” Kate said with a smile, “That’s why I wanted to do the survey. Unless parents are supported, it makes the job that much harder.”

Kate heard first-hand about the support the centre provides.

And enjoyed speaking to several mums and their babies.

This little one was excited to show Kate around :)

During  a visit to the children's playhouse 'Cath's Cottage'.

Kate said she loved it adding, "It's their own little world".

People's Simon Perry heard a special conversation between the Duchess and a little boy named River.

'Earlier, she met little River Rowson, 3, who was playing greengrocers with some pals. He was showing her some Brussels Sprouts and Broccoli. “Are you cooking too?” she asked as he offered some vegetables. “Are you going to make a stir fry?”
River clearly liked his new pal. “You’re my friend,” he told her, to which Kate replied, “You’re my friend too.”

There's plenty of footage from the conversation and the entire visit in the video below.

Afterwards, Kate returned to HMP Send women's prison in Surrey.

In 2015, the Duchess visited HMP Send to meet a group of women to discuss their experiences and the role addiction played in their lives. Following the visit, Kate said "I was reminded today how addictions lie at the heart of so many social issues and how substance misuse can play such destructive role in vulnerable people's lives. I saw again today that a failure to intervene early in life to tackle mental health problems and other challenges can have profound consequences for people throughout their lives. I am grateful to the women I met for sharing their difficult personal stories with me. It is encouraging to learn how organisations like RAPt are offering specialist support to help people break the cycle of addiction and look forward to a positive and crime free life."

Today, Kate reunited with some of the women she met almost five years ago to discuss how they are rebuilding their families.

Kate learned about the work of The Forward Trust and their efforts supporting clients to improve their relationships and often times reconnect with their children.

Over tea and cake, they discussed the challenges and hardships on families when a parent is in prison.

Kate asked the group how much their experiences as adults were influenced by their childhood. Several of the women immediately replied "all of it".

More from The Telegraph:

'During a later visit to Send Prison, near Woking in Surrey, Kate talked to prisoners who trace their history of offending and addiction back to troubled childhoods involving domestic violence, absent parents, drug and alcohol abuse.
“It really shocked me when I came here last time how early the challenges were that you faced,” the Duchess told a group of ex-offenders, including three women she met in 2015 when they were serving sentences. 

One prisoner, Francesca, told Kate that the prison’s 12-step drug treatment programme had changed her life, adding: “Coming to jail is one of the best things that has ever happened to me.”

The Duchess smiled and said: “It's so often I hear that. Why does it have to get to that point before people receive the help and support?" 

Send houses around 280 prisoners, with a higher proportion of prisoners serving life for murder than any other prison.

Former inmates include the Duchess of York's former hairdresser, Jane Andrews, who murdered her boyfriend.

A refresher on the questions in the survey:

Question 1:
What do you believe is most important for children growing up in the UK today to live a happy adult life. Rank from most important to least important.

• Good physical and mental health
• Good friendships and relationships
• Access to opportunities
• Access to a good education

Question 2:
Which of these statements is closest to your opinion?

• It is primarily the responsibility of parents to give children aged 0-5 the best chance of health and happiness
• It is primarily the responsibility of others in society to give children aged 0-5 the best chance of health and happiness
• It is the shared responsibility of parents and others in society to give children aged 0-5 the best chance of health and happiness
• Don’t know

Question 3:
How much do you agree or disagree with this statement: The mental health and wellbeing of parents and carers has a great impact on the development of their child(ren)?

• Strongly agree
• Tend to agree
• Neither agree nor disagree
• Tend to disagree
• Strongly disagree

Question 4:
Which of the following is closest to your opinion of what influences how children develop from the start of pregnancy to age 5?

• Mostly the traits a child is born with (i.e. nature)
• Mostly the experiences of a child in the early years (i.e. nurture)
• Both nature and nurture equally
• Don’t know

Question 5:
Which period of a child and young person’s life do you think is the most important for health and happiness in adulthood?

• Start of pregnancy to 5 years
• 5-11 years (primary school)
• 11-16 years (secondary school)
• 16-18 years (further education)
• 18-24 years (young adulthood)
• Don’t know
• All equally important

Is there anything else you would like to tell us about your views on the early years of childhood?

Click here to visit the 5 Big Questions website.

The Duchess was stylish in a separates look in camel, brown and black tones.

Kate wore Massimo Dutti's Limited Edition Buttoned Coat in camel (with thanks to Caroline Parr). The garment is described as: "Classic, sophisticated and with a flattering silhouette for the feminine figure, this camel-coloured coat made of natural fibres will be an essential piece this season. Tailored coat made of wool and cashmere. Featuring a slim fit, peak lapels, double-breasted button fastening, two flap pockets, long sleeves with four-button cuffs, a back vent and lining."

Kate wore a black turtleneck sweater with an animal print skirt by ZARA. The flowing midi skirt with faux leather waistband was on sale for just £10 before selling out.

Kate's boots are thought to be a past season Ralph Lauren style.

Kate wore her sold out Accessorize earrings.

And a new gold medallion style necklace with G, C and L engraved on it.

The piece is by British brand Daniella Draper (with many thanks to Middleton Maven). The Personalised Gold Midnight Moon Necklace is a classic piece. It has sentimental value with the children's initials engraved and today was a lovely occasion to debut it. I expect it was a gift over Christmas or Kate's recent birthday. It's available for £,1070.

I'm looking forward to seeing the results. Did you participate in the survey? I'm very much hoping we see more day tours like this. I found the trip to Wales particularly interesting as William and Kate will be Prince and Princess of Wales when Charles is King. I'd love to see a 'Wales Week' every year, perhaps over the summer when the children are on holidays. It would be a wonderful opportunity to highlights some of the fantastic charitable organisations, explore areas of interest in depth there and continue to nurture a lasting relationship with the country.

Duchess Kate In Sparkling Red Needle & Thread Dress For UK-Africa Investment Summit Reception

On behalf of the Queen, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge hosted a reception at Buckingham Palace this evening to mark the UK-Africa Investment Summit.

The UK-Africa Investment Summit took place in London today. It brought together heads of state and government and senior representatives from African countries, key multilateral agencies and high profile UK and African businesses. Kensington Palace said: "The summit will demonstrate the strength of the relationship between the UK and Africa, showcase and promote the breadth and quality of investment opportunities across Africa, and highlight the UK’s commitment to supporting economic development in Africa, including through the creation of jobs and new partnerships."

Upon arrival, William and Kate enjoyed meeting with guests and leaders from all over the world.

There were plenty of moments like this too.

The Earl and Countess of Wessex were also present. Below, the Countess speaking to Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

The royals greeting each other warmly.

Little family reunion at tonight’s reception! pic.twitter.com/YnxDG5ie7S

— Emily Nash (@emynash) January 20, 2020

Wishing Sophie a very Happy Birthday - she turned 55 today. The Countess was also in red tonight, choosing a red scalloped Alaia dress.

Princess Anne mingling with guests.

The UK's trade with Africa is estimated around £33 billion and between now and 2035, African nations will have to create 20 million jobs per year to keep pace with the rapidly growing population. The government revealed "In the lead up to the summit, £6.5 billion of commercial deals have already been signed by British companies to deliver jobs, growth and investment across the UK and Africa, with deals worth billions more expected to be made during the course of the day. They are expected to mobilise billions of pounds in private sector investment for Africa, marking a new era of trade between the UK and Africa."

More from the Department of International Trade:

'Africa has 8 of the world’s 15 fastest growing economies and there is huge demand on the continent for clean, sustainable and innovative investment. As home to some of the world’s most enterprising technologies and the financial centre of the world in the City of London, the UK is perfectly placed to meet that demand and be the continent’s investment partner of choice. A range of programmes, totalling £370 million, include:

Supporting African countries to meet their rapidly growing energy demands through green energy, including better access to solar energy and electricity. Helping Africa thrive digitally through a £45 million programme helping young Africans, especially women, access the internet, develop digital skills and find jobs. Enabling at least 100,000 more women in Africa to secure high-quality jobs by funding their education and training.

A £200 million programme to help build basic trade infrastructure in southern Africa. The new programme will support upgrades to border posts, ports and roads. It will also work with governments and businesses to improve trade policies and cut red tape. Boosting the flow of private financing into African projects supporting girls’ education, healthcare and climate resilience.'

William and Kate chatting with guests.

During a speech, Prince William shared hopes for future trips to Africa and recalled proposing to Kate in Kenya almost a decade ago. "The African continent holds a very special place in my heart. It is the place my father took my brother and me shortly after our mother died. And when deciding where best to propose to Catherine I could think of no more fitting place than Kenya to get down on one knee." He continued "As Catherine and I have said to several of you here tonight, we hope to have the chance to visit many more countries in the future and share our mutual love of your continent with our children." The video below has footage of William's speech in addition to some lovely interactions between Kate and Sophie. The Countess jokes about forgetting the time for the reception, and Kate tells her "I need to practice my French Sophie".

Another shot from the reception shared by Buckingham Palace.

A group photograph at the Palace.

Earlier today, Prince William met with several leaders including Rwanda's president Paul Kagame. People's Simon Perry revealed the Cambridges would undertake two tours this year. Perhaps visiting several Commonwealth countries in Africa is in the planning?

William greeting Ghana's President Nana Akufo-Addo.

The Duchess chose a fabulous sparkling red dress by Needle & Thread for the occasion. It's a shorter version of the brands £410 Aurora Sequin Gown. During 'Styling Kate' posts, Needle & Thread has been suggested with some frequency and it's easy to see why. Designs include whimsical, elegant pieces - often times with signature embellishment or sequin detail. Many of their pieces would be ideal for Kate, I hope we see more in her evening-wear rotation.

The ruffled neck dress is described as "A vision of tulle and shimmering embellishment, the Aurora gown from Needle & Thread presents a grown-up way to wear sequins. From chevrons and diamonds to floral shapes and horizontal panels, each and every one has been purposefully placed, resulting in a light-catching finish that's sure to garner a whole host of compliments."

A shorter version of the Aurora is available at Net-A-Porter.

Kate teamed the dress her red suede Gianvito Rossi pumps.

And her Jenny Packham Casa clutch.

Kate completed the look with a new pair of statement earrings by Soru Jewellery. Kate's Royal Closet spoke to the brand who revealed they are a 2017 style. They will be available for pre-order tomorrow.

The £140 Ruby earrings are described as: "Handcrafted from 18kt yellow gold vermeil on sterling silver, genuine semi precious ruby gemstones are set within multi facetted sparkling crystals. Slight natural variances may occur between colours, shapes and sizes of the gemstones. We use natural gemstones which may contain internal inclusions, adding to the beauty and uniqueness of each individual gem."

The Palace confirmed the Duke and Duchess will attend the UK Holocaust Memorial Day Commemorative Ceremony in Westminster next Monday. 2020 marks the 75th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau. Additionally, reports are beginning to surface regarding a two-day trip to the Republic of Ireland for the Cambridges in March. We should hear more on that in the coming weeks.

The Royal Family Gathers for Festival Of Remembrance

The Royal family gathered at the Royal Albert Hall tonight for the annual Festival of Remembrance.

During Remembrance Week, Her Majesty and members of the Royal family, lead the nation in commemorating and honouring the men and women who have sacrificed themselves in service to our country. The period in November marks one of the rare occasions when see the family together in large numbers.

I often hear readers from outside the UK comment on how the UK pays tribute to our fallen heroes. I believe it is not only an honour to do so, but vital for future generations to remember those who gave their today for our tomorrow.

The royals were greeted by Mr Ian McCulloch, President of the Royal Albert Hall, and Lieutenant General James Bashall, President of the Royal British Legion.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex arriving.

Each year the Festival of Remembrance focuses on specific themes. This year, it marks the 75th anniversaries of the great battles of 1944 - Monte Cassino, Kohima and Imphal, D-Day -  and the collaboration and friendship of the British, Commonwealth and Allied armies who fought them. It also celebrates the role of GCHQ (Government Communications Headquarters responsible for signals intelligence) and the role of those in the secret service whose efforts are not publicly known.

The event has been held at the Royal Albert Hall every year since 1927. Her Majesty has been patron of the Royal British Legion since 1952, only missing two festivals in the many years since.

Other royals in attendance included the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, the Duke of York, the Earl and Countess of Wessex, the Princess Royal and Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence, the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester, and the Duke of Kent. Camilla had been feeling very poorly during the week with a severe chest infection which forced her to miss several engagements, so it's good to see she's on the mend and felt well enough to attend tonight.

Ahead of the arrival of the royals, the hanging of the hammercloth takes place. Archivist Suzanne Keyte said: "There are many things that an archivist expects to find as part of their job, but one of the most unusual and rather lovely jobs at the Royal Albert Hall is caring for the hammercloth and ensuring that it is hung from the balcony in the Royal Box whenever the reigning monarch visits the Hall. The hammercloth is a beautiful and very heavy velvet curtain bearing the Royal Coat of Arms and the initials of the reigning monarch of Great Britain and the Commonwealth. The origin of the word ‘hammercloth’ is rather vague but was usually meant to mean the heavily embroidered cloth that hung over a coachman’s seat on horse drawn coaches, often embroidered with a coat of arms."

The Royal British Legion's annual festival commemorates those who have lost their lives in service of their country.

It takes place on the eve of Remembrance Sunday, with two performances on the day - a matinée open to members of the public and an evening event for members of the Legion, their families, officials and royals.

Presented by Huw Edwards, performers included James Blunt and Leona Lewis singing alongside the Central Band of the Royal Air Force and the Band of HM Royal Marines.

Actor and pianist Jeff Goldblum takes to the stage with ballroom dancers.

Tonight's event also paid tribute to the company of RFA Mounts Bay who were instrumental in delivering supplies and aid to the Bahamas in the wake of Hurricane Dorian this year.

The Torch of Remembrance was carried by 3rd Officer Sarah Stevens.

The citation was read by Captain Rob Anders: "We honour the Commonwealth nations and our allies who joined Britain in defending its freedoms, values and way of life."

The Duke and Duchess watching the performance.

The Chelsea Pensioners choir performed 'The Old Brigade'.

Actor Daniel Mays read the poem 'The Red Poppies on Monte Cassino" as newsreel of the battle played. It is one of the best known Polish military songs of WWII.

D-Day veteran Eddie Gains talked about landing in Normandy: "When you think about all the lives lost, it's very important to remember, I'm lucky to have survived."

The Duchess was elegant in a navy dress which falls below the knee with a fitted velvet black belt. As it's a Remembrance event, the designer of the garment is not known. It's likely a bespoke piece, possibly by one of Kate's most trusted brands such as Alexander McQueen or Jenny Packham.

Kate debuted a new sparkly headband by ZARA (with thanks to Shorty KC). The £22 padded headband features tonal appliqué.

The Duchess accessorised with the Queen's pearl on diamond earrings. She's worn them on multiple occasions.

Kate wore her black velvet Jimmy Choo Romy 100 pumps. She debuted them for last year's Festival of Remembrance.

It appears Kate's clutch is a McQueen piece.

Kate wore three poppies on a brooch.

Last year, Kate visited the Imperial War Museum to learn more about the three brothers of her great-grandmother, all of whom fought and died in the First World War. It's likely the three poppies are in memory of Francis, Maurice and Lionel Lupton who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.

The Festival of Remembrance will be televised on BBC One at 9 pm. We'll see William and Kate and many others royals for Remembrance Sunday tomorrow morning.