Click to enlarge

On 13 September 2005, Prince William, now the Duke of Cambridge, became patron of Centrepoint - an enormous honour for Centrepoint staff and the young people we support.

Centrepoint has always been close to the Prince's heart. As children, Princes William and Harry made private visits to Centrepoint services with their mother, the late Diana Princess of Wales. Diana was a long standing and active supporter of the charity, and became patron herself in 1992.

Click to enlarge

Keeping Diana's work alive, William plays an active role in all aspects of Centrepoint. He even helped young people directly when he spent two days volunteering in our accommodation services. Working with young people to discuss their situation, review their personal development plans, sort out their housing benefit claims and find more permanent accommodation, William used his special way of connecting with people from all backgrounds, making them feel at ease.

The Duke was also pivotal in marking our 40th anniversary. He launched our celebrations in November 2008 and in March 2009 he invited staff, supporters, ambassadors and young people into St James' Palace in the first ever such state dinner. In December 2009, Prince William joined Centrepoint's CEO, Seyi Obakin, to spend a night sleeping out on the streets of London in temperatures as low as minus 4C to deepen his understanding of homelessness.

Centrepoint was the first charity of which William chose to become patron. He is now patron of several charities, and we all endeavour to support each other and work together within The Charities Forum.