King Charles and other senior British royals are set to relinquish their patronages of nearly 200 charities and organizations, Buckingham Palace announced on Saturday.
This decision comes after a comprehensive review of their association with over 1,000 groups, initiated following the passing of Queen Elizabeth. The review aimed to assess the affiliations of Queen Elizabeth, Charles, and Queen Camilla, whether as presidents or patrons, with various organizations.
Queen Elizabeth held patronage of 492 organizations, while Charles and Camilla were connected to 441 and 100, respectively. Following the review, approximately 830 patronages will remain with the king and queen or be transferred to other members of the royal family.
The process of selecting royal patrons allows organizations to gain visibility and recognition for their work, as well as support in achieving their goals. Notable organizations retaining their royal connection include the Royal British Legion, a prominent armed forces charity, the Dogs Trust, the Jockey Club, and the Wildlife Trusts, an organization dedicated to grassroots conservation efforts.
Craig Bennett, Chief Executive of the Wildlife Trusts, expressed gratitude for King Charles’s ongoing patronage, highlighting his leadership and commitment to sustainability and environmental harmony.
The palace indicated that the conclusions of the review would be communicated to the relevant organizations this week, coinciding with the first anniversary of Charles and Camilla’s coronation. This strategic realignment of royal patronages underscores the monarchy’s evolving role in supporting charitable causes and reflects the changing dynamics within the royal family.
