The Duchess of Edinburgh has become the royal patron of Visualise Scotland, a charity based in Edinburgh that supports people with disabilities. A new photograph of the Duchess was released to mark the announcement.
Charity's mission and history
Visualise Scotland, founded in 1987, provides care services to people with disabilities in Edinburgh and East Lothian. Over the years, the charity has expanded its support to include a range of disabilities, not just visual impairments.
The charity aims to help people live “fulfilled lives” by using funds to provide specialised day care support and residential services. These services are designed to help people live independently while receiving the support they need.
Duchess's connection to the cause
Sophie's new role reflects her commitment to helping people with disabilities. Her daughter, Lady Louise Windsor, was born with esotropia, a condition causing a squint in one eye that turns inwards. This was likely due to Louise being born prematurely, requiring surgery as a baby and again at age 10.
Pauline Gray, CEO of Visualise Scotland, said: “We are honoured and proud that The Duchess has agreed to be our Royal Patron supporting our mission to deliver outstanding services to people with disabilities through housing support, supported living and a range of day services.”
In 2015, Sophie told The Sunday Express about Louise's condition: “Her squint was quite profound when she was tiny. And it takes time to correct it. You've got to make sure one eye doesn’t become more dominant than the other.” She added: “She's fine now – her eyesight is perfect.”
