Prince Harry has had a very busy two days during an official visit to Leeds from 6 to 7 July.

Leeds Community Foundation

His visit began at the “Leed Leads: Encouraging Happy Young Minds” charity fair and panel discussion addressing mental well-being of the city’s young people.

The Leeds Community Foundation hosted the event which brought together a range of mental health projects to celebrate their important work which is being delivered.

The Prince met representatives from local charities and learnt more about their work with young people.


He gave a speech about the importance of mental health.

“I have been so impressed by the commitment of this City and the Leeds Community Foundation in focusing on mental health. You have been leading the way in bringing funding and expertise together in support of local community solutions.

Read Prince Harry’s speech in full.

Link – Leeds Community Foundation

Rugby Football League

As the new Patron, Prince Harry later travelled to Headingly Carnegie Stadium to attend the Sky Try Rugby League Festival, which is part of a seven-year programme to encourage 700,000 children to play Rugby League.

Prince Harry learnt more about the program and met children, coaches and players on the pitch.

Link – Rugby Football League

WellChild

Prince Harry, as Patron, made two visits in support of the WellChild charity which works with children suffering from serious illnesses or life-altering conditions.

He visited the home of five-year-old Oliver Rooney to help WellChild with a garden makeover through the “Helping Hands” 300th project.


Oliver, who has Wolf Hirschhorn Syndrome, a rare chromosome disorder, lives in a three bedroom semi in Bramley, with his mother, Elizabeth McOmish-Rooney and four brothers.

Ms McOmish-Rooney said Oliver had to be kept away from his brothers because of the condition at the bottom of the garden. The uneven ground with rubble and nails was too dangerous for Oliver, who is unsteady on his feet, with limited communication and awareness of danger.

Oliver was forced to watch from behind a fence on wooden decking above the back garden.

A team of ten volunteers helped transform the outside area into a level safe space where Oliver can play on artificial grass with sensory aids including a mirror and a water play, which will help develop his physical skills and encourage independence.

Ms McOmish-Rooney said the garden transformation would completely transform their lives as it would give them a space all the family can use.

Prince Harry said the new artificial grass would make a great football pitch and teased them about the number of times they had kicked the ball over their neighbours’ fences!

Link – WellChild

Leeds Children’s Hospital

At Leeds Children’s Hospital, Prince Harry was introduced to WellChild nurse Helen Tooby who provides specialist care and support to help families to have their children home from the hospital sooner than expected.

Prince Harry met with a group of children and their families whom WellChild and Helen have helped in their journey from hospital to home.

His visit to Leeds finished with a visit to Haribo’s new facility to see how their much-loved sweets are made and to meet those employed from the newest recruits to members who have been working for the company for over 27 years.

The factory has become a leading local employer who employs more than 730 staff working at their two manufacturing sites.

Thank you #Leeds for the warm welcome – it’s been a great couple of days! 📷PA

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