Prince William undertakes engagements in East London

The Prince of Wales carried out a series of engagements yesterday supporting those tackling poverty, social isolation and youth-led change.

Prince William was in East London yesterday visiting various organisations, spotlighting how communities are responding to some of today’s biggest challenges, such as poverty and social isolation, to youth-led social change. The Prince’s engagements throughout the day highlighted innovative grassroots initiatives and celebrated the vital role local leaders play in driving lasting, positive impact across the capital.

Picture by Andrew Parsons / Kensington Palace

The Prince began the day with a visit to PECAN, a longstanding community charity based in Peckham, dedicated to addressing poverty and supporting vulnerable residents. During the visit, Prince William toured PECAN’s main building and met with staff, volunteers and individuals supported by the charity, hearing first-hand accounts about the impact of their work.

Picture by Andrew Parsons / Kensington Palace

William then visited the nearby warehouse, which supplies the Foodbank. PECAN runs several projects to support people facing food insecurity, unemployment, and isolation, serving individuals and families across the borough. Each week, the Foodbank provides food parcels to an average of 100 households, and in 2025, it helped feed approximately 7,000 adults and over 2,500 children. PECAN experienced a significant setback after a 2024 burglary at its warehouse, during which around £3,000 worth of food and hygiene products were stolen.

However, the charity was overwhelmed by the community’s generosity and kindness in the aftermath, allowing it to bounce back quickly. Since then, PECAN has committed to tackling poverty through its vital services, including a drop-in café offering refreshments and support; an Employment Opportunity programme; Peckham Pantry, which operates as a social supermarket; and a women’s advisory service for those affected by the criminal justice system or facing complex life challenges.

Picture by Andrew Parsons / Kensington Palace

On his second visit of the day, the Prince lent a hand in pouring some draft beer. Prince William visited Peckham Pub — a community-led venue established in 2017 by Clement Ogbonnaya, which serves as an inclusive “public house for all.” Clement was recently recognised in the New Year’s Honours List for his outstanding contribution to the local community.

The Pub has become a hub for local communities, hosting a range of events and initiatives aimed at fostering connection and combating loneliness. During his visit, the Prince had the opportunity to hear about the venue’s community programmes, including “Chatty Patty”, a weekly initiative that provides free tea and conversation to those seeking companionship and social interaction. His Royal Highness also met with participants and local residents involved in the programme, highlighting the important role of community spaces in supporting wellbeing and reducing isolation.

Picture by Andrew Parsons / Kensington Palace

On his final engagement of the day, the Prince of Wales attended London’s SXSW Festival to visit The Diana Award, which is this year’s charity partner in Shoreditch. While there, William met two of the young people most recently recognised by the Legacy Award, Sophie Pender and Vivi Li. The Prince listened to how they are continuing the work of the late Diana, Princess of Wales. These two young people took part in a panel session at the festival, discussing ‘society rewired’, and shared their reflections with the Prince.

The Diana Award was founded on the belief of the late Diana, Princess of Wales, that young people have the power to change their community, their country and the world. It exists to empower young people to lead that change through a range of initiatives which unlock their potential, inspire action and create opportunities, ensuring that no young person is left out or left behind.