The Duke of Cambridge, Prince William, was in the province today as part of a brief one day visit.
Beginning the Dukes schedule, he visited the PSNI training academy in East Belfast where he met student officers, and support staff.
Prince William also spoke to members of the other emergency services where he heard how they have responded to the COVID-19 crisis.
Before leaving the Duke couldn’t resist meeting a five month old puppy Irish setter. The puppy, called Tara, is training as an assist dog to help sufferers of PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder).
Following the Duke of Cambridge’s visit a spokesperson said: “On Emergency Services Day, we were delighted to welcome the Duke of Cambridge to our Police College to give him an insight to the Police Service of Northern Ireland’s bespoke emergency services peer support programme.
“The course trains Wellbeing Volunteers to be able to support colleagues suffering from mental health issues by using shared lived experiences and having an understanding of the challenges of working in an emergency response service.
“Officers and staff involved in the training both enjoyed and appreciated the visit and the acknowledgement of the often difficult roles they undertake when serving our community.”
