Each year Global Handwashing Day motivates and mobilises people around the world to improve their handwashing habits – something that has never been as important as during the current Covid-19 pandemic.

On the occasion of this year’s Global Handwashing Day, our Grand Prior, HRH The Duke of Gloucester, sent a video message to all members, volunteers and staff at St John to thank them for their tireless efforts in helping the sick and less fortunate in our societies during these unprecedented times.

“This year has been a year like no other in living memory;” HRH The Duke of Gloucester says in the short video, recorded at Kensington Palace. “A dramatic reduction in first aid training and other services shook many of our St John organisations to the very core.” These difficult circumstances did not stop St John in providing help during the pandemic.

It is in times like these when you as St John volunteers and staff are needed more than ever”, the Grand Prior continued, “ when all of you make tremendous personal sacrifices and freely take over responsibility for others to ensure they are safe from harm, and that they get the help they urgently need.

His Royal Highness addressed all worldwide members, volunteers and staff at St John and thanked them for their commitment and their selfless acts of generosity in times of need. Also on behalf of Her Majesty The Queen: “My fellow St John people, I am – we are all – proud of you.”

Read here more about our worldwide Covid-19 response.