Our Royal Patron

History

RSBC has been honoured to have royal patronage since 1887 when, in her Golden Jubilee year, Queen Victoria became patron of the charity, which was then known as The Royal Blind Pension Society.

 

In more recent years, RSBC’s beloved Royal Patron was Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, until her death in September 2022. On a very special day for RSBC in 1989, she opened our specialist vision impairment further education college, Dorton, accompanied by her husband, His Royal Highness Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.

 

Queen Elizabeth was an inspiration to many generations, and to the children and young people we support. We were incredibly proud and grateful for Her Majesty’s patronage – her life of dedicated service, her active interest in our work supporting children, young people and their families, and her kindness will always be remembered.

 

In 2024, RSBC was very pleased receive the news that His Majesty King Charles III would be continuing the tradition of royal patronage. It is a great privilege to have his support.

Our Royal Patron, King Charles III

In May 2024, following a review of the charities and organisations to which the late Queen Elizabeth II was connected as President or Patron, The Royal Society for Blind Children (RSBC) was deeply honoured when His Majesty King Charles III accepted the Patronage of the charity.

 

The news was shared with RSBC to mark the first anniversary of King Charles and Queen Camilla’s Coronation. Our CEO Julie Davis said: “We have been privileged to have enjoyed many years of patronage from the Royal Family, and so we were delighted to receive the news that His Majesty will be continuing this tradition. This is a great honour for our charity, everyone who supports us, and the children, young people and families who use our services.”

 

“We know that King Charles is dedicated to improving the lives of young people to build better futures, and we are very thankful to him for his acceptance of the Patronage of our charity. His Majesty’s commitment will give us added momentum across all our services, and will reinforce our own commitment to helping vision impaired children and young people fulfil their potential and live their lives without limits.”