The Queen Consort carried out a private visit to Swindon in support of an issue close to her heart. Jonathan Douglas CBE, the CEO of the National Literacy Trust, shared a rare glimpse of what means to work with Camilla and how dedicated she is to helping others and the causes she believes in.
Speaking about the visit far from the spotlight, Mr Douglas told OK! magazine: “Her Majesty met privately with foster carers in our Swindon Hub, who were all part of a support group for individuals caring for looked-after children (early years age).
“It was a meeting with no cameras or press, just Her Majesty seated and chatting to the foster parents about the challenges they face, the joy of books and how reading together can promote bonding and communication.”
The charity leader called Her Majesty’s work with his trust “invaluable support”, saying it “helps us to ensure children and adults across the UK have the literacy skills they need for a happier, healthier and more prosperous life”.
The royal has been the patron of the Trust since November 2010 and has worked with it to make sure adults and children have the literacy skills needed for a happier and healthier life.
Camilla is well known for her passion for books and reading, and has made her life mission to improve literacy across the country and all ages.
The 23-year-old called the awards a “great platform to raise awareness for amazing volunteers” up and down the country, before also sharing how she finds collaborating with Her Majesty.
She told the magazine: “The best part of working with Her Majesty is that her taking her time with people who organise events underlines the value of the work they do.
“Her Majesty’s generous spirit makes those she meets feel appreciated. Whether sharing a cup of tea and conversation with older people, meeting someone who has been homeless or has joined a communicates as a refugee, or popping on a penny to join children making bread for a Big Lunch to share with their neighbours, Her Majesty shows a keen interest in the communities she visits and in people’s lives.”
The Coronation Champions Awards were launched in February and give the chance to people to share their stories about outstanding volunteers and personalities in their communities.
Upon launching the project, Camilla said: “I am delighted to be launching the Coronation Champions Awards with the Royal Voluntary Service, to shine a light on the herculean efforts of our nation’s volunteers.
“Up and down the country, millions of unsung heroes are contributing to their local communities, giving generously of their time and their talents to enhance the lives of others. If you know a volunteer who is making a difference, please be sure to share their story. We would love to hear about them!”
These awards are just one of the initiatives created in the run-up to the volunteers to bring people together in celebrating the Coronation of King Charles and Queen Camilla.
The day after the service is held at Westminster Abbey, people will be invited to throw street parties overseen by the Coronation Big Lunch – an idea stemmed from the yearly Big Lunch created by the Eden Project to boost community spirit, reduce loneliness and support charities and good causes.
On May 8, on the other hand, will be held the Big Help Out, an initiative encouraging people to try volunteering for themselves and join the work being carried out in their area.
