In a surprise appearance, Princess of Wales Kate Middleton joined her husband Prince William in Liverpool during an event coinciding with World Suicide Prevention Day. They supported a new initiative aiming to use the power of sports to foster more open dialogue about mental health and suicide prevention. Princess Kate's attendance was not originally planned, but she ensured her presence alongside Prince of Wales in their first joint royal activity after the summer break.
During the event held at Hill Dickinson Stadium, Everton's new club stadium, the royal foundation of the Prince and Princess launched the "On Your Side" initiative, which includes a practical guide directed at the sports community. It aims to help individuals and institutions recognize signs of someone in distress, initiate conversations with those experiencing a crisis, and help them access appropriate support before reaching a critical stage.
The idea is that stadiums, clubs, and sports teams are significant not only for competition, but can also become a support network for individuals who may be suffering in silence and do not seek mental health services. Therefore, the guide includes a framework of five steps named GOALS, which starts with preparing and opening the conversation, asking questions and listening, and providing support and guidance.
The unexpected attendance of the Princess of Wales, as it wasn't initially planned for her to accompany Prince William, was aimed at showing her support for the initiative and highlighting the importance of giving people a safe space to talk about their feelings and having someone listen during challenging times. Mental health has been one of the primary focuses for the couple through their royal foundation for years.
The launch of the initiative included participation from a group of athletes, including Kelly Holmes, Jill Scott, and Laura Kenny, while Harry Kane appeared alongside other sports figures in a short film accompanying the campaign focusing on the power of simple words and inquiring about someone going through a tough time..
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