Prince William has announced a significant shift in his royal duties, focusing on impactful projects rather than traditional public engagements. He is earnest about solving homelessness. This cause is close to home, shaped by his personal experience and driven by the example of his late mother, Princess Diana.
His projects focus on a new five-year program, Homewards. This new program’s purpose is to end homelessness by working together. Prince William announced this ambitious plan last week, saying that it aims to end rough sleeping and improper temporary accommodation. The free programme specifically aims to help places such as Newport, Dorset, Lambeth in south London, Belfast, Aberdeen and Sheffield.
Since childhood, Prince William has been on the front lines in advocacy for homelessness. At 11 years old, he toured a shelter operated by the nonprofit The Passage along with Princess Diana. This formative experience had an indelible effect on him and continues to instinctively inform his work and commitment all these decades later. He experienced sleeping rough for a night in 2009. Through this experience, he gained first-hand insight into the struggles that the homeless community faces on a daily basis.
Beyond Homewards, Prince William has made headlines for starting the Earthshot Prize back in 2020. This groundbreaking initiative is awarding five of the most imaginative projects £1 million each to tackle some of the biggest environmental challenges over the next ten years. In November, Brazil will be the setting for the awards ceremony for the Earthshot Prize. This is especially thrilling as it takes place immediately before the UN climate summit COP30. His approach to environmental issues is indicative of his commitment to end homelessness overall, characterized by the desire to create meaningful and concrete change.
Similarly, in the past Prince William has walked the walk himself to draw attention to homelessness. He has supported Big Issue vendors on the street and emphasized the need for urgent optimism in tackling this issue.
“I don’t believe we should be living with homelessness in the 21st century.” – Prince William
Insiders say that Prince William intends to focus on “not projects patronages.” He’d like to see more focus go beyond the symbolic engagements to programs and projects that provide tangible outcomes. His previous work with United for Wildlife, which works to combat illegal wildlife trade, is indicative of this proactive mindset.
As Prince William’s supporter, former UK Foreign Secretary William Hague has said Prince William’s initiative is about making action happen, not just talk.
“William isn’t interested in lengthy meetings or endless discussions. I’ve often heard him say, ‘There’s been too much talk, we need action.’” – William Hague
Through these initiatives, Prince William seeks to foster collaboration among different organizations to find sustainable solutions to pressing societal issues. His dedication to homelessness and environmental concerns showcases a broader vision of meaningful royal service that resonates with his family’s legacy and reflects contemporary societal challenges.
