Friends of the Elderly, a charity that runs care homes, day care services and a grant-giving service for older people living on low incomes throughout England has announced that The Princess Royal has become its patron.

Princess Anne takes up the role which the late Queen Elizabeth II held for over 60 years.

In a statement Friends of the Elderly said: “As the charity’s patron for many years, Her late Majesty’s support was extremely important to the many older people the charity has cared for throughout the years. The continued support of the Royal Family, through the ongoing presidency of Her Royal Highness Princess Alexandra and the new patronage of The Princess Royal is greatly appreciated by Friends of the Elderly, its residents, beneficiaries and staff.

Mark Wilson, Friends of the Elderly’s interim co-chief executive said, “To have Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal’s patronage and support of Friends of the Elderly is so greatly appreciated by all of us at the charity. 2025 marks our 120th year of operation at Friends of the Elderly, a very important milestone for us. We are excited about the future, and we look forward to working with Her Royal Highness on our many important projects and initiatives that support older people throughout England.”