RoyalDailyImages

Princess Kate made a special appearance on Children in Need last Friday, opening the star-studded show with a crucial message.

As a mother of three, 41-year-old Kate spoke directly to the camera, highlighting the significance of the long-running charity. She emphasized the importance of nurturing every childhood, stating, “Tonight is all about helping to support, champion, and empower all children to be the very best they can be, crucial for their future health and happiness.”

Continuing, she pointed out, “Our relationships, surroundings, and experiences during the earliest years lay the foundations that shape the rest of our lives. Unfortunately, for too many people, stressful and traumatic situations in early childhood can cause harm, taking many years to overcome.”

“It is vital, therefore, that we nurture every childhood, and this is why projects supported by Children in Need are so important. They help the youngest, most vulnerable members of our society feel safe, secure, and loved in these crucial, formative years, allowing them to enjoy their childhoods and grow to reach their potential, thriving in the world later in life.”

The Princess concluded her message with, “I hope you enjoy this evening’s show, and best of luck to all those taking part in challenges and the incredible fundraising effort.”

Kate’s television appearance followed her keynote speech at The Shaping Us National Symposium at The Design Museum in London. During the speech, she emphasized her deep commitment to making a positive difference, especially for the most vulnerable and those in need.

Adding to her statement, she said, “This is not just about the youngest children in our society, who are, by their very nature, vulnerable. It is also about the many young people and adults who are suffering. We must do more than simply meet the short-term needs of these individuals; we must also look at creating long-term, preventative change. And that takes us right back to the beginning.”

The Princess launched The Shaping Us campaign in January, aiming to underscore the significance of a child’s formative years.

What is Children in Need?

Children in Need, a charity established by the BBC in 1980, focuses on raising money for disadvantaged children and young people. Since its inception over 40 years ago, it has raised more than £1 billion. The organization’s iconic mascot is a yellow bear named Pudsey Bear.

This year’s show, hosted by Ade Adepitan, Mel Giedroyc, Jason Manford, Chris Ramsey, Lenny Rush, and Alex Scott, featured a Doctor Who special and well-known TV characters for the Race Across Yorkshire challenge.