Achievement and Service
A key part of The Prince of Wales’s role is to recognise the achievements of individuals and groups who have made a contribution to national life and might, for example, include head teachers, employees of the National Health Service, representatives of the emergency services and volunteers, as well as groups and societies.
The Prince and the Duchess celebrate their achievements in a number of ways, including visiting projects and writing letters of congratulation. They also host receptions and dinners and have invited groups as diverse as London taxi drivers for their fundraising activities, and former employees of the Travelling Post Office for their years of service.
When The Prince cannot attend an event in person, he will often send a message in another way, for example by writing a foreword for a programme, or a written message to be read out, or by recording a video message in advance to be played on the day.
Their Royal Highnesses also invite more than 25,000 people each year to tour the garden at Highgrove, their home in Gloucestershire, often in appreciation of their work and service.
Finally, The Prince presides over a number of Investitures each year at Buckingham Palace, where he, in support of the Queen, awards honours for service and achievement.