Arabnews24.ca:Thursday 6 October 2022 10:51 AM: The Prince and Princess of Wales have visited a suicide prevention charity in Belfast as part of a day-long trip to Northern Ireland.
PIPS, in the north of the city, says it has experienced a significant increase in demand since the start of the COVID pandemic - including a 500% rise among young people.
It was founded in 2003 after 14 young people took their own lives over a short period the previous year.
Prince William and Kate, both 40, spoke to staff about their work helping people at risk of suicide and self-harm.
They also took part in an art therapy session, painting pumpkins with vulnerable children who have been supported by PIPS.
And the couple joined a group of volunteer counsellors as they packed up the charity's Little Boxes of Hope.
As well as assisting children, the packages are designed to help parents and guardians, too.
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William, now heir to the throne, and Kate also visited a new outdoor street-food and retail market in the city centre.
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Trademarket, which opened its doors in July, offers artisan food, drinks and products from local, independent vendors.
The royals were pictured trying cocktails at one of the stalls.
Cheering crowds later lined the streets as they arrived in Carrickfergus, Co Antrim, to visit a youth charity.
They have been learning about the work of Carrick Connect, which offers support services to local young people experiencing social or emotional difficulties.
William and Kate met some of the young people who have benefitted and their mentors.
