Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Kent’s lifelong devotion to public service and her quiet, compassionate presence touched many lives. Her empathy, dignity, and unwavering commitment to supporting others, particularly through her charitable work, will be remembered with great admiration and affection.
As Royal Patron of Samaritans from 1971 to 1999, and through her time as a volunteer on the telephone at Samaritans Central London branch, she offered not only her name but her time, empathy, and belief in the power of listening. She continued her support for the organisation as an Ambassador in 2016, which reflected her deep understanding of the importance of listening and being there for those in crisis.
“The Samaritans as an organisation offers a friendly, non-judgemental, listening ear to thousands of people of all ages. People who just need to talk in total privacy. As a volunteer I found the time I spent on the telephone not only worthwhile but also a very humbling experience. And indeed a huge privilege.” Duchess of Kent, 2016.
Samaritans remain especially grateful for the Duchess’s longstanding connection with our organisation. Hers is a legacy that continues to inspire.