HRH The Princess Royal became the Patron of the Sailors’ Children’s Society in 2003. Since then Her Royal Highness has given her unwavering support to the society’s mission of helping children and families from seafaring backgrounds and has attended many events, helping to raise the profile of the charity and shining a spotlight on its worthy causes.
HRH The Princess Royal holds the title of Admiral in the Royal Navy and is also a keen sailor. The Patronage of Her Royal Highness shows a commitment to addressing the needs of children affected by the loss of a parent from a seafaring background.
In 2023 The Princess Royal renewed Patronage for another 3 years. The Sailors’ Children’s Society is deeply honoured to continue the tradition of having a member of the Royal Family as our Patron. This began in 1868 when Rear Admiral, The Duke of Edinburgh became the first royal Patron. Since that time there has always been a royal patron of the society with Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother being the longest-serving royal Patron from 1937 until her death in 2003.
A Royal Timeline
Rear Admiral, The Duke of Edinburgh becomes the first royal Patron of the Society.
King Edward VII and Queen Alexandra become the royal Patrons of the Society.
King George V and Queen Mary become the royal Patrons of the Society
King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, later the Queen Mother become the royal Patrons of the society. Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother continues in her role as patron of the society after the death of her husband, King George VI.
Her Royal Highness, The Princess Royal becomes the Patron of the Sailors' Families' Society, following the death of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother.
The society changes its name to the Sailors' Children's Society at a reception attended by HRH The Princess Royal on the HQS Wellington, moored on the Thames embankment.
HRH The Princess Royal launched the Sailors' Children's Society Caravan Appeal on HMS President in London.
HRH The Princess Royal launched the 200 Business Club is launched at The Maritime Museum in Hull.
HRH The Princess Royal attended the 200 Business Club Reception onboard HQS Wellington, moored on the Thames embankment.
HRH The Princess Royal attended a reception at Trinity House in London.
HRH The Princess Royal renewed Patronage of the Sailors' Children's Society for a further three years.
Her Royal Highness—The Princess Royal
