Prince William challenged over homelessness work despite privileged royal life

Prince William has defended his work trying to tackle homelessness despite his own privileged royal life.

In a new documentary, it is put to the Prince of Wales that some people may question if he's the right person to lead a major project on the issue.

William says: "I think everyone having a right to a safe and stable home, it benefits us all.

"I come with no other agenda than desperately trying to help people who are in need.

"And I see that as part of my role, is that, why else would I be here if I'm not using this role properly to influence and help people where I can? And I like a big challenge. I do like that, but I can't do on my own."

The clip gives a rare insight into how William perceives his relatively new position as heir to the throne.

Last year, the prince launched Homewards, a five-year initiative aiming to tackle all forms of homelessness and change perceptions about what rough sleeping means in 2024.

The project has seen teams set up in six UK locations, bringing together organisations and individuals to find local solutions to homelessness.

Since the launch, a documentary team has followed people involved in the project.

William said the project was going to demonstrate homelessness "can be ended" - but his message faced criticism, including from anti-monarchy campaigners Republic.

They suggested his involvement in the issue was completely at odds with his privileged position and the number of properties that he and the rest of the Royal Family have access to.

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On Wednesday evening, William is due to attend the Centrepoint Awards, which recognises the achievements of young people who have transformed their lives after experiencing homelessness.

He's been patron of the charity for almost 20 years, following in the footsteps of his mother Princess Diana.

Prince William: We Can End Homelessness airs on 30 and 31 October at 9pm on ITV1 and ITVX, STV and STV Player.

(c) Sky News 2024: Prince William challenged over homelessness work despite privileged royal life