Morale boosting NI royal visit to combat Covid fatigue

Charles and Camilla’s first engagement of the morning was at the Ulster Museum in Belfast where they spoke with nurses and midwives who transitioned early from Queen’s University and the Open University to take on clinical roles due to the Covid emergency.

They royal couple also viewed the museum’s Florence Nightingale exhibition – marking the 200th anniversary of her birth.

The exhibition celebrates the contribution of nurses from the First World War to the present day.

After leaving the museum, Camilla spent time with staff and supporters at the Belfast and Lisburn Women’s Aid.

The organisation provides confidential support, information and emergency accommodation for women and children affected by domestic and sexual violence.

The Duchess heard of the additional challenges faced in recent months due to an increase in referrals related to the coronavirus pandemic lockdown restrictions.

In a separate lunchtime visit, Prince Charles met staff at Henderson Foodservice in Co Antrim.

The group recently launched a community grant scheme – giving £20,000 to charities providing a variety of complex and critical services to users throughout Northern Ireland, impacted by the health crisis.

Later in the afternoon, Charles and Camilla were greeted at Hillsborough Castle by NI Secretary Brandon Lewis along with the First and Deputy First Ministers.

In her role as patron of the Barnardo’s charity, Camilla also met with local staff and volunteers to hear how service provision has been maintained during the distruption caused by the pandemic.

The royal couple last visited Northern Ireland in May 2019, undertaking engagements in Co Fermanagh, Co Down, Co Armagh and Belfast.