Prince William opens up on 'the very worst pain' he felt in emotional new statement

Prince William has opened up about the devastating impact of grief, describing it as “the very worst pain” as he praised the vital work being done to support bereaved children and families across the UK.

The Prince of Wales, 41, made the powerful statement as Child Bereavement UK, a charity he has served as patron for the past 16 years, announced a major merger with Winston’s Wish, another leading charity supporting grieving children and families.

William, who was just 15 when his mother Princess Diana tragically died in 1997, has long spoken about the profound effect of loss. 

In his latest statement, he emphasized the importance of ensuring children and families receive the support they need to heal.

“Grief is the very worst pain any child or parent will ever endure, and while we cannot prevent these losses, we can ensure that every possible type of expert support and care is given, to help rebuild the lives of those affected,” William said.

“In my sixteen years as Patron of Child Bereavement UK I have seen the life-changing impact of their work and how the support, care and compassion provided protects the long-term health and wellbeing of those living with loss."

The future king, who privately attended Child Bereavement UK’s 30th anniversary dinner earlier this week, also praised the merger, calling it a “bold step” to expand support services across the country.

“They have recognised that together they can do so much more, and I commend them both for taking this bold step to reach more people and help to reduce the long-term challenges that unresolved grief can cause,” he said.

The newly merged organisation will continue under the name Child Bereavement UK, with Prince William remaining as its proud patron.

RELATED: Princess Diana sent son Prince William 'cards of love' during school