Catherine, the Princess of Wales has stepped out in a stunning yellow dress for her first solo public appearance following Queen Elizabeth’s passing in early September.
Kate Middleton travelled to the Royal Surrey County Hospital in Guildford which has delivered and cared for approximately 3000 babies per year.
In her visit, she met with Jasmine Team unit staff who have helped various women impacted by mental health issues during pregnancy and the postnatal period.
The hospital’s team of dedicated staff also had the opportunity to discuss their pioneering model, which ensures as many mothers as possible receive continuous care during pregnancy and childbirth.
The Princess donned a mask to cradle newborn baby girl, Bianca, while in the maternity unit and also spoke to Bianca’s mother regarding the care she received from the staff.
In May, the hospital’s maternity unit were awarded a UNICEF Baby Friendly Initiative Gold Award for dedication in supporting infant feeding and parent-infant relationships.
She then proceeded to the hospital’s Special Care Baby Unit, which provides specialist care for premature and very small babies.
“The SCBU is one of only a few units nationally which has the ability for mothers to remain close to their babies at all times through the provision of around-the-clock cot side sleeping facilities,” a hospital spokesperson said.
“Staff also encourage parents to take part in the care of their child as much as possible, including bathing, feeding and nappy changing.
“Evidence demonstrates that the ability for families to develop close and loving relationships at this early stage in their journey is essential for maternal well-being and the long-term physical, cognitive, social and emotional development of their baby.”
Kate has been a long time champion for the wellbeing of mothers and recently became the patron of the Maternal Mental Health Alliance. Following the appointment, the Princess said parents often feel “overwhelmed by a child’s early years” and no one is “immune to experiencing anxiety”.
“We all know that pregnancy, childbirth and the first months and years of a child’s life can be hugely demanding,” she said.
“It is down to each and every one of us to support parents and carers and all those who are raising children today.”