The Duchess of Edinburgh becomes Patron of Mothers' Union

This morning, The Duchess of Edinburgh was announced as the new patron of Mothers’ Union and visited one of their projects, English for Women, in Chelmsford. 

Mothers’ Union has a long history of royal patrons since its foundation in 1876, with The Duchess following in the footsteps of the late Queen Elizabeth II, the Queen Mother and Queen Victoria. 

Mothers’ Union has families and communities at its heart. The charity's members bring hope and practical support to millions of people every year through parenting, literacy and community development programmes. 

Ahead of Mothers’ Union’s 150th anniversary next year, The Duchess visited the project, English for Women, in Chelmsford. The project aims to reduce isolation of those in local communities who experience language barriers in their everyday lives, many of whom are fleeing challenging situations. It provides a space where learners can build support networks and learn everyday English to increase their sense of belonging.

Together, learners engage in everyday English to increase their sense of belonging in local communities. They also learn about British culture to help make sense of the community in which they live. For some it is a lifeline and their only time out of the home, for others it is a way to help improve their English, find a job, volunteer in their community or enrol in further study. 

The English for Women project links closely with The Duchess of Edinburgh’s support of the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) agenda, a United Nations initiative which recognises not only the impact of conflict on women and girls, but also the positive role women play in conflict resolution and building peace. 

During the visit, The Duchess received a briefing from the Mothers’ Union international team on its work to support and protect women in conflict situations.