The Princess of Wales praised the “amazing work” carried out by NHS staff as she made an unexpected public appearance alongside Prince William during a hospital visit in London, just one day before her birthday. Kate joined the Prince of Wales at Charing Cross Hospital on Thursday, marking their first official engagement of 2026. William had initially been scheduled to attend alone, making the princess’s appearance a welcome surprise for staff and volunteers.

The visit came only days before the first anniversary of Kate’s announcement in early 2025 that she was in remission from cancer. The timing added particular meaning to the engagement, given the couple’s focus on frontline healthcare workers and patient care during the demanding winter virus season.

Praising compassion that often goes unseen

During the visit, the prince and princess met NHS staff, charity volunteers and patients across several areas of the hospital. After touring a ward that provides neurological rehabilitation, Kate spoke warmly about the impact of the work she had seen.

“There’s some amazing work going on here,” she said. “We’ve just seen some of it today. It makes a big difference to patients’ lives.”

The couple surprised a room full of volunteers and staff from Imperial Health Charity, a moment one nurse later described as surreal. William greeted the group with a cheerful “happy new year,” joking as he glanced at his watch that it was still acceptable to say so.

Kate took time to highlight the emotional labour involved in healthcare and volunteering, noting that it often goes unnoticed. She spoke about empathy, kindness and compassion, saying these qualities frequently extend far beyond any job description yet play a vital role in patient recovery and wellbeing.

Volunteer Maureen Gilmour, who supports people undergoing chemotherapy, explained to the couple that patients and their loved ones often spend hours waiting. Kate responded quietly and knowingly, briefly touching William’s shoulder as she said, “I know.”

Moments of calm inside the hospital walls

The visit also included time spent with patients in an art therapy room, where a harpist was playing softly as the royal couple entered. Kate remarked that the music was very relaxing, adding to the calm atmosphere.

One staff member later reflected on seeing the princess in person, describing the moment as striking and emotional. Kate appeared relaxed and confident, wearing her hair down and carrying a small handbag. She chose a burgundy trouser suit with a matching blouse, while William wore a V neck jumper over a shirt and tie beneath his suit jacket.

Imperial Health Charity supports all five hospitals within Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust through funding, arts programmes and volunteering. It is part of NHS Charities Together, an umbrella organisation representing more than 220 NHS charities across the UK.

Chief executive Gail Scott-Spicer said the charity was delighted to host the visit, calling it a meaningful way to thank NHS staff and volunteers. She added that the occasion was made even more special by the presence of the Prince and Princess of Wales, whose attendance brought genuine encouragement to those working tirelessly on the front line.