Duchess Catherine Accepts Honorary Positions with Four Charities
The Duchess of Cambridge, Catherine, has announced the names of the series of British charities that she will support. REUTERS/Suzanne Plunkett

Kate Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge, has joined the Scouts as a volunteer helper and has accepted honorary positions with four charities, it has been announced.

The duchess has volunteered to work with the Scout Association with the focus on packs in North Wales where William is based as an RAF search and rescue pilot.

She has also agreed to be patron of the Art Room, Action on Addiction, East Anglia's Children's Hospices and the National Portrait Gallery.

"The duchess's first patronages and her volunteer position reflect Her Royal Highness' personal interests in the arts, the promotion of outdoor activity, and supporting people who are in need of all ages, especially young children," said St James's Palace.

"The duchess's new roles reflect Her Royal Highness' wish to support the royal family's work in highlighting important causes in the charitable and voluntary sector and the arts. The duchess has chosen to support organisations that complement the charitable work already undertaken by her husband."

In the last few months, Katherine has been privately researching potential charities to support formally. In November, she made a private visit to the East Anglia's Children's Hospices, a charity that takes care of children and young adults with life-threatening conditions.