Royals

Duchess Kate gives emotional speech on mental health

The Duchess of Cambridge spoke to a teachers' conference - in a three-year-old dress.

The Duchess of Cambridge has delivered an emotional speech about the importance of supporting children’s mental health.

Kate visited the Head Teacher School Conference in London where she delivered a rare speech to gathered teachers.

“I often get asked why I decided to spend time highlighting the mental health of children,” said the Duchess. “My answer might be similar to many of yours.”

“I was lucky,” said the 33-year-old. “My parents and teachers provided me with a wonderful and secure childhood where I always knew I was loved, valued and listened to.

“But of course many children are not so lucky. Since beginning my work in areas like addiction, for example, I have seen time and time again that the roots of poor mental health in adulthood are almost always present in unresolved childhood challenges.”

The mother-of-two added that it’s not just children from unstable homes that are at risk, but children from “safe, stable” homes, as well.

Left: The Duchess at a premiere in 2012. Right: In the same dress at the Head Teacher School Conference in 2015.

The Duchess attended the event in an outfit from 2012.

She first wore the NZ$2350 embellished Matthew Williamson dress with complimentary clutch and pumps to the premiere of African Cats in 2012.

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