Kate cradles newborn baby in heartwarming new pictures at maternity care centre

The Princess of Wales has resumed her royal duties following the passing of Queen Elizabeth II last month. The mother-of-three visited Royal Surrey County Hospital’s maternity unit on Wednesday.

It was Kate’s first major solo engagement as the Princess of Wales. 

The royal, wearing a face mask and stunning Karen Millen dress, was pictured entering the hospital on Wednesday afternoon. 

She paired the dress with black heels, a simple black clutch bag and pearl drop earrings. 

During the visit, the Princess learnt all about the holistic support provided to pregnant women and new mothers. 

As a dedicated advocate for mental well-being in new mothers, Kate met with staff on the unit’s Jasmine Team which is a committed crew dedicated to helping women impacted by mental illnesses during pregnancy. 

She heard about how the team collaborate with local services and charities to provide support to pregnant women and new mothers. 

Her Royal Highness also met with a mother who had previously received support from the Surrey hospital. 

Later in the day, the Princess paid a visit to the hospital’s postnatal bay. 

READ MORE: Princess Anne spotted taking ferry ride in New York City

Staff explained how they had recently implemented a pioneering model of care at the hospital by working to ensure that as many mothers as possible receive continued care after childbirth.

Her final visit was to the hospital’s Special Care Baby Unit (SCBU) which provides specialist neonatal care for tiny and premature babies. 

The Royal Surrey County Hospital’s maternity unit delivers and cares for around 3,000 babies each year and received a UNICEF Baby Friendly Initiative Gold Award in 2022. 

It won the award for outstanding work helping infant-feeding and parent-feeding relationships. 

In a statement ahead of her visit, Kensington Palace said: “The Princess is passionate about supporting the mental wellbeing of mothers, and recently became Patron of the Maternal Mental Health Alliance.”

A royal source emphasized today that the Early Years remains a vital part of the Princess’s work and that the public can expect to hear more from her on this in the coming months.

Prince William carried out a separate engagement today at St George’s Park to mark the 10th anniversary of the national centre for the Football Association. 

He met with young players, para-footballers and competitors for this year’s Street Child World Cup across the region, to learn about the work they’re doing.