The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have attended the launch of the National Emergencies Trust at St Martin-in-the-Fields in Trafalgar Square in London.
The National Emergencies Trust (NET) was set up in response to a spate of domestic disasters that occurred in 2017 including the Manchester and London terror attacks and the Grenfell Tower fire disaster. The charity for UK disasters has been backed by the Duke and the Duchess of Cambridge and will provide the public with a single donation point when needed in the wake of future domestic disasters.
At the launch, the pair met with victims of the Grenfell Tower as well as those affected by the Manchester terror attack and Cumbria floods.
William gave a moving speech at the launch where he recognised the “resilience and strength” of the victims.
“Whenever and wherever disaster strikes here in the UK, this country has a unique way of pulling together. From the people who donate their blood, to the children who empty their piggy banks, to the families that set aside a bedroom in their home,” the Duke said.
After meeting with the victims William added: “I’m impressed about how willing the charity sector has been to learn the lessons from previous responses, and to ensure that the quickest and most appropriate support is offered to those affected.”
“It has been humbling to speak to survivors of the London Bridge and Manchester attacks, the Cumbria floods, the Grenfell Tower fire and other disasters here in the UK. Their stories are as heartbreaking as they are inspiring.”
