Kate Middleton's Action On Addiction Video: Real Or PR Stunt? The Debate Continues

Kate Middleton has found herself in hot water after she appeared in a video for Action on Addiction, urging those fighting addiction to come forward and seek help. While the Duchess of Cambridge offered words of encouragement for those who are struggling, some people can’t help but see the move as another PR stunt from the royal family.

In the clip, Middleton expressed her gratitude to the staff of Clouds House, which is in Salisbury, Wiltshire. She also congratulated the employees for their continuous efforts to aid those in need.

“Having met the amazing staff of @ActionAddiction, the Duchess spoke with current clients and those accessing the online Clouds aftercare service to see how they have been doing throughout the lockdown period," the Cambridges’ official Twitter account posted.

Middleton also had a message for those who are struggling with addiction and may be feeling that they don’t have anyone to reach out to, Mirror reported. The mom of three also underlined people who are suffering from this problem for the first time and said that they usually aren't vocal about what they are going through.

Despite the duchess’ intention to spread awareness for the pressing issue, the video garnered mixed reaction from social media users. Others praised Middleton for her work, and @AshardLorraine even said the Cambridges are great examples of “how the monarchy should be.”

“It makes me happy to listen in & watch The Duchess communicating directly with people. A positive aspect of the lockdown, before we would see her talking but didn’t always hear the conversation, how genuine, kind & knowledgeable she is with the organizations she supports,” @Nita61239931 shared.

However, it also sparked backlash, with other Twitter users pointing out that it has been eight years since she last visited Clouds House. Twitter user @fifiguinee said that Middleton last went to the center in 2012 and even called the working royal “duchessdolittle.”

“That's embarrassing, a whole 8 years since she visited them but she needs them now for PR. no wonder her patronages are closing from lack of funds,” @Anastas50508647 wrote.

But while Middleton did visit Clouds House for the first time eight years ago, she has also paid a visit to other Action on Addiction centers in Essex, London, Liverpool and Wiltshire over the past years, Town & Country reported.