Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh#Arms

{{short description|Member of the British royal family (born 1965)}}

{{Infobox royalty

| name = Sophie

| title = Duchess of Edinburgh (more)

| image = Countess of Wessex UK in NL Embassy 2023 (cropped) (cropped).jpg

| caption = Sophie in 2023

| alt = Sophie is smiling and wears a blue dress.

| birth_name = Sophie Helen Rhys-Jones

| birth_date = {{Birth date and age|1965|1|20|df=yes}}

| birth_place = Radcliffe Infirmary, Oxford, England

| spouse = {{marriage|Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh
|19 June 1999}}

| issue = {{plain list|

| house = Windsor (by marriage)

| father = Christopher Rhys-Jones

| mother = Mary O'Sullivan

| module = {{infobox person | embed=yes

| education = West Kent College

| signature = Signature of Sophie, Countess of Wessex.svg

}}

Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh (born Sophie Helen Rhys-Jones; 20 January 1965) is a member of the British royal family. She is married to Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh, the youngest sibling of King Charles III.

Sophie grew up in Brenchley, Kent, and later attended West Kent College, training as a secretary. She then worked in public relations, representing firms across the UK, Switzerland and Australia before opening her own agency in 1996. She met Edward in 1987 while working for Capital Radio; they began dating in 1993. Their engagement was announced in January 1999, and they married on 19 June at St George's Chapel, Windsor Castle. The couple have two children: Lady Louise Mountbatten-Windsor and James Mountbatten-Windsor, Earl of Wessex, who are respectively sixteenth and fifteenth in line to the British throne {{as of|2024|lc=on}}.

In 2002, Sophie closed her business interests and began full-time work as a member of the royal family. She is the patron of over 70 charities and organisations, including Childline and the London College of Fashion. She undertakes over 200 engagements each year, including visits to schools, universities and military bases.{{cite web |title=The Countess of Wessex |url=https://www.royal.uk/the-countess-of-wessex |website=The Royal Family |date=4 November 2015 |access-date=15 December 2020 |archive-date=26 January 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210126134106/https://www.royal.uk/the-countess-of-wessex |url-status=live }}{{cite web |title=2018 royal work statistics: who's been busy, who's been busier (congrats, Your Maj!) |url=https://www.macleans.ca/royalty/2018-royal-work-statistics-whos-been-busy-whos-been-busier-congrats-your-maj/ |website=Maclean's |date=23 December 2018 |access-date=15 December 2020 |archive-date=18 January 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210118012537/https://www.macleans.ca/royalty/2018-royal-work-statistics-whos-been-busy-whos-been-busier-congrats-your-maj/ |url-status=live }} Her charity work primarily revolves around people with disabilities, women's rights, avoidable blindness and agriculture.

Early life and career

Sophie Helen Rhys-Jones was born at Radcliffe Infirmary, Oxford, on 20 January 1965 into a middle-class family.{{cite web |title=Background |url=http://www.royal.gov.uk/OutPut/Page2719.asp |website=The British Monarchy |publisher=Royal Household |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20041021064554/http://www.royal.gov.uk/OutPut/Page2719.asp |access-date=2 April 2020|archive-date=21 October 2004 }}{{cite web |title=How Sophie, Countess of Wessex moved from being a career PR girl to a devoted Royal stalwart |url=https://www.tatler.com/article/sophie-countess-of-wessex-interview-sunday-times-magazine |website=Tatler |date=8 June 2020 |access-date=3 March 2021 |quote=Sophie also came from a middle-class family, her mother a secretary and her father a sales director for a tyre company. |archive-date=10 March 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210310172258/https://www.tatler.com/article/sophie-countess-of-wessex-interview-sunday-times-magazine |url-status=live |last1=Sampson |first1=Annabel }}{{cite web |title=Prince Harry's Aunt Recalls Trying to Help Meghan Markle: 'I Just Hope They Will Be Happy' |url=https://www.etonline.com/prince-harrys-aunt-recalls-trying-to-help-meghan-markle-i-just-hope-they-will-be-happy-147749 |website=Entertainment Tonight |access-date=3 March 2021 |quote=Sophie, 55, came from a middle class family and worked for a PR firm before she wed Prince Edward. |archive-date=10 March 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210310213104/https://www.etonline.com/prince-harrys-aunt-recalls-trying-to-help-meghan-markle-i-just-hope-they-will-be-happy-147749 |url-status=live }} Her father, Christopher Bournes Rhys-Jones (born 1931), is a retired sales director for an importer of industrial tyres and rubber goods. Her mother was Mary (née O'Sullivan; 1934–2005), a charity worker and secretary.{{cite news|title=PR girl turns princess|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/special_report/1999/06/99/royal_wedding/363946.stm|access-date=14 March 2018|publisher=BBC|date=11 June 1999|quote=Her father, Christopher, the son of a teacher, is a retired salesman for a tyre maker ... Mrs Rhys-Jones, a charity worker and secretary, has her own royal connection. As a young woman she once danced with Prince Philip at a society ball.|archive-date=28 January 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180128031606/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/special_report/1999/06/99/royal_wedding/363946.stm|url-status=live}}{{cite news| title=Countess of Wessex's mother dies| publisher=BBC| date=29 August 2005| url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/4194720.stm| access-date=27 October 2008| archive-date=23 October 2012| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121023153913/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/4194720.stm| url-status=live}} She has an elder brother, David (born 1963), and was named after her father's sister, Helen, who died in a riding accident in 1960. Her godfather, actor Thane Bettany, was her father's stepbrother; both men spent their early life in Sarawak, North Borneo, then a British Protectorate ruled by the White Rajahs.[http://www.tiscali.co.uk/entertainment/film/biographies/paul_bettany_biog.html Biography of Paul Bettany] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090326052907/http://www.tiscali.co.uk/entertainment/film/biographies/paul_bettany_biog.html |date=26 March 2009 }}

She descends from King Henry IV of England{{cite news |last1=Miller |first1=F. |title=Sophie Wessex family tree: The shock royal in Sophie's bloodline |url=https://www.express.co.uk/news/royal/1284774/sophie-wessex-family-tree-royal-family |access-date=15 August 2024 |publisher=UK Daily Express |date=20 May 2020 |quote=She is a descendant of King Edward III of England, and also of King Henry IV of England through his son Humphrey, Duke of Gloucester.}} and is a direct descendant of Robert Molesworth, 1st Viscount Molesworth through her grandmother, Margaret Patricia Rhys-Jones (née Molesworth; 1904–1985) who was the great-granddaughter of the Rev. John Molesworth.[http://www.burkespeerage.com/ Burke's Peerage, Baronetage & Knightage] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070715215802/http://www.burkespeerage.com/ |date=15 July 2007 }}, 107th edition, volume 2, 2003. pages 2720–2731.{{cite news |title=Sophie's Brush With Greatness |url=https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/news/local-news/sophies-brush-with-greatness-1168373 |access-date=6 May 2020 |newspaper=Manchester Evening News |date=13 August 2007 |quote=The Countess of Wessex will come face to face with her great great great grandfather the Rev John Edward Nassau Molesworth...her ancestor['s][his] son ...solicitor's firm...set up in 1840 by the Reverend's son [solicitor] John Molesworth... |archive-date=26 August 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180826150252/https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/news/local-news/sophies-brush-with-greatness-1168373 |url-status=live }} One of the guests at Rhys-Jones's wedding to Prince Edward in 1999 was Robert Molesworth, 12th Viscount Molesworth.{{cite web|title=Molesworth History|url=http://molesworth.id.au/?page_id=1035|website=moleswoth.id.au| date=11 July 2017 |accessdate=6 October 2017|quote=In 1999, when I (the Right Honourable the (12th) Viscount Robert Molesworth) had the honour to be invited to Windsor Castle to represent the family at the marriage of Prince Edward to Sophie Rhys-Jones (whose paternal grandmother was Margaret Patricia Molesworth)....}}

Rhys-Jones was raised in a four-bedroom 17th-century farmhouse in Brenchley, Kent. She began her education at Dulwich Preparatory School, before moving on to Kent College, Pembury, where she was friends with Sarah Sienesi, with whom she subsequently shared a flat in Fulham and who later became her lady-in-waiting. Rhys-Jones then trained as a secretary at West Kent College, Tonbridge.{{cite news|title=PR girl turns princess|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/special_report/1999/06/99/royal_wedding/363946.stm|work=BBC News|date=11 June 1999|access-date=22 June 2013|archive-date=13 January 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150113033305/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/special_report/1999/06/99/royal_wedding/363946.stm|url-status=live}}

She began a career in public relations, working for a variety of firms, including four years at Capital Radio,{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/uk/1999/may/26/1|title=Sun apologises to 'devastated' Sophie Rhys-Jones|newspaper=The Guardian|date=26 May 1999|access-date=12 January 2017|archive-date=18 January 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170118045740/https://www.theguardian.com/uk/1999/may/26/1|url-status=live}} where she was assigned to the press and promotions department, as well as public relations companies The Quentin Bell Organisation and MacLaurin Communications & Media.{{cite news|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/theroyalfamily/9370089/Countess-of-Wessex-the-Royal-Familys-latest-style-icon.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220112/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/theroyalfamily/9370089/Countess-of-Wessex-the-Royal-Familys-latest-style-icon.html |archive-date=12 January 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live|title=Countess of Wessex: the Royal Family's latest style icon?|newspaper=The Telegraph|first=Hannah|last=Furness|date=2 July 2012|access-date=12 January 2017}}{{cbignore}} She also worked as a ski representative in Switzerland and spent a year travelling and working in Australia. In 1996, Rhys-Jones launched her public relations agency, RJH Public Relations, which she ran with her business partner, Murray Harkin, for five years.{{cite news|url=http://www.cnn.com/SPECIALS/views/y/1999/06/lowrie.royals.jun17/|title=How 'sensible' and 'royal wedding' add up to 'yawn'|first=Margaret|last=Lowrie|publisher=CNN|date=20 June 1999|access-date=12 January 2017|archive-date=9 October 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161009152809/http://www.cnn.com/SPECIALS/views/y/1999/06/lowrie.royals.jun17/|url-status=live}}

Prior to her marriage, Rhys-Jones lived at Coleherne Court, London.{{cite web|title=Colherne Court in 2006 - 21st Century|url=https://www.rbkc.gov.uk/vmgallery/general/vm_then_now_gallery.asp?tpg=3&cpg=1&gallery=vm_then_now_old_brompton_road|publisher=Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea|access-date=4 January 2023|archive-date=8 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210508041231/https://www.rbkc.gov.uk/vmgallery/general/vm_then_now_gallery.asp?tpg=3&cpg=1&gallery=vm_then_now_old_brompton_road|url-status=dead}}

Marriage and children

File:The Earl and Countess of Wessex.JPG at Trooping the Colour in London, June 2013]]

While working at Capital Radio, Rhys-Jones met Prince Edward, the youngest son of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, for the first time in 1987 when he was dating her friend.{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/1256202.stm|title=Sophie: Life in the spotlight|work=BBC News|date=2 April 2001|access-date=5 February 2017|archive-date=6 February 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170206024258/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/1256202.stm|url-status=live}} She met him again at a promotion shoot for the Prince Edward Summer Challenge to raise money for charity in 1993, and the two began their relationship soon afterwards.{{cite magazine|url=https://www.vanityfair.com/style/2021/07/prince-edward-and-sophie-from-pr-blunders-to-frontline-royals/|title=How Prince Edward and Sophie Evolved From P.R. Blunders to Become Key Frontline Royals|magazine=Vanity Fair|first=Hadley|last=Hall Meares|date=15 July 2021|access-date=7 April 2022|archive-date=18 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211018121102/https://www.vanityfair.com/style/2021/07/prince-edward-and-sophie-from-pr-blunders-to-frontline-royals|url-status=live}}{{cite web |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/history/events/prince_edwards_wedding |title=History – Prince Edward's wedding (pictures, video, facts & news) |publisher=BBC |access-date=27 December 2011 |archive-date=20 January 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120120043112/http://www.bbc.co.uk/history/events/prince_edwards_wedding |url-status=live }} In December 1993 and amid growing speculation about whether they were planning to marry, Edward wrote a letter to newspaper editors, in which he denied any wedding plans and asked the media to respect their privacy.{{cite web|url=https://www.upi.com/Archives/1993/12/21/UPI-Spotlight-Prince-Edward-asks-British-editors-to-respect-his-privacy/7328756450000/|title=Prince Edward asks British editors to respect his privacy|work=UPI|date=21 December 1993|access-date=17 July 2022}} Edward proposed to Rhys-Jones at a vacation in the Bahamas in December 1998 and their engagement was announced on 6 January 1999.{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p00g8ypy|title=Prince Edward announces his engagement|publisher=BBC|date=24 November 2009|access-date=12 April 2018|archive-date=15 October 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181015234714/https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p00g8ypy|url-status=live}} Edward proposed to her with an engagement ring featuring a two-carat oval diamond flanked by two heart-shaped gemstones set in 18-carat white gold. The ring was made by Asprey and Garrard (now Garrard & Co) and is worth an estimated £105,000.{{Cite news |url=http://royalweddings.helloonline.com/prince-william-and-kate-middleton/galeria/20100922403/kate-middleton/prince-william/rings/1/11/#ancla |title=Crown jewels: The fabulous rings which sealed the love of Europe's royal couples |work=HELLO! magazine |location=UK |access-date=28 November 2012 |archive-date=23 March 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210323130513/http://royalweddings.hellomagazine.com/prince-william-and-kate-middleton/galeria/20100922403/kate-middleton/prince-william/rings/1/11/#ancla |url-status=dead }} Rhys-Jones, who was reportedly close to the Queen from the beginning of her relationship with Edward, was allowed to use the royal apartments at Buckingham Palace prior to her engagement.

The wedding took place on 19 June 1999 at St George's Chapel, Windsor Castle, a break from the weddings of Edward's older siblings, which were large, formal events at Westminster Abbey or St Paul's Cathedral.{{cite magazine|url=http://people.com/archive/cover-story-edward-sophie-vol-51-no-25/|title=Edward & Sophie|magazine=People|date=5 July 1999|access-date=10 March 2018|archive-date=11 March 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180311021143/http://people.com/archive/cover-story-edward-sophie-vol-51-no-25/|url-status=live}} On the day of their marriage, Prince Edward was created a hereditary peer as Earl of Wessex with the subsidiary title of Viscount Severn (derived from the Welsh roots of his wife's family).{{cite news| title=Wessex titles for Edward and Sophie| work=BBC News| date=19 June 1999| url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/special_report/1999/06/99/royal_wedding/373120.stm| access-date=3 May 2011| archive-date=6 August 2020| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806214140/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/special_report/1999/06/99/royal_wedding/373120.stm| url-status=live}}

The couple spent their honeymoon at Balmoral Castle. Following their union, the Earl and Countess of Wessex moved to Bagshot Park, their home in Surrey.{{cite web | url=http://www.nao.org.uk/report/the-crown-estate-property-leases-with-the-royal-family/ | title=The Crown Estate – Property Leases with the Royal Family | publisher=National Audit Office (United Kingdom) | work=Report | date=2005 | access-date=16 April 2015 | archive-date=5 April 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150405002325/http://www.nao.org.uk/report/the-crown-estate-property-leases-with-the-royal-family/ | url-status=live }} While their private residence is Bagshot Park, their office and official London residence is based at Buckingham Palace.{{cite web|url=https://www.royal.uk/royal-residences-buckingham-palace|title=Royal Residences: Buckingham Palace|date=12 November 2015|publisher=royal.uk|access-date=21 May 2018|archive-date=9 May 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160509132429/https://www.royal.uk/royal-residences-buckingham-palace|url-status=live}}

In December 2001, Sophie was taken to the King Edward VII Hospital after feeling unwell. It was discovered that she was suffering from an ectopic pregnancy and the foetus had to be removed.{{cite news |author= |date=6 May 2003 |title=Baby joy for Sophie and Edward |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/3003397.stm |newspaper=BBC News |access-date=5 May 2015 |archive-date=5 May 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150505062822/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/3003397.stm |url-status=live }} Two years later, on 8 November 2003, she prematurely gave birth to her daughter, Lady Louise, resulting from a sudden placental abruption that placed both mother and child at risk, and the Countess had to undergo an emergency caesarean section at Frimley Park Hospital, while the Earl of Wessex rushed back from Mauritius.{{cite news | url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/onthisday/hi/dates/stories/november/8/newsid_3724000/3724342.stm | title=Royal baby born prematurely | work=BBC News | date=8 November 2003 | access-date=11 May 2010 | archive-date=24 February 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210224170030/http://news.bbc.co.uk/onthisday/hi/dates/stories/november/8/newsid_3724000/3724342.stm | url-status=live }} Sophie returned to Frimley Park Hospital on 17 December 2007, to give birth, again by caesarean section, to her son, James (then Viscount Severn, now Earl of Wessex).{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/7148830.stm |title=Countess gives birth to baby boy |work=BBC News |date=17 December 2007 |access-date=27 October 2008 |archive-date=13 November 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121113040744/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/7148830.stm |url-status=live }}

Public life

File:Queen's Birthday Parade 2012 - Prince Edward.jpg at the Queen's Birthday Parade in Gibraltar in 2012]]

Sophie's first overseas tour after her marriage was to the Canadian province of Prince Edward Island in 2000.{{cite journal|last1=Scott |first1=Burke |last2=Aimers|first2=John |authorlink2=John Aimers |title=Wessexs' Tour a Triumph |journal=Canadian Monarchist News |issue=Autumn 2001 |publisher=Monarchist League of Canada |date=October 2001 |url=http://www.monarchist.ca/cmn/2001/wessex.htm |access-date=27 October 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090708015252/http://www.monarchist.ca/cmn/2001/wessex.htm |archive-date=8 July 2009 }}

In December 2011, the Countess of Wessex joined her husband visiting troops in Afghanistan. In February and March 2012, the Earl and Countess visited the Caribbean for the Queen's Diamond Jubilee, visiting Saint Lucia, Barbados, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Grenada, Trinidad and Tobago, Montserrat, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Anguilla and Antigua and Barbuda. Highlights of the tour included the 50th Anniversary Independence Day celebrations in Saint Lucia, a joint address from both houses of the Barbados Parliament and a visit to sites affected by the recent volcanic eruptions in Montserrat.{{cite news|last=Harris|first=Carolyn|title=Royals of the Caribbean: The 2012 Diamond Jubilee Commonwealth Tours Begin|url=http://www.royalhistorian.com/royals-of-the-caribbean-the-2012-diamond-jubilee-commonwealth-tours-begin/|access-date=22 June 2013|publisher=royalhistorian.com|date=15 February 2012|archive-date=9 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180709035306/http://www.royalhistorian.com/royals-of-the-caribbean-the-2012-diamond-jubilee-commonwealth-tours-begin/|url-status=live}} In June 2012, as part of the Queen's Diamond Jubilee celebrations, Edward and Sophie, represented the Queen during a three-day tour to Gibraltar. The couple attended a Queen's Birthday Parade and toured Main Street, in the historic old town.{{cite web|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/europe/spain/9324361/Earl-and-Countess-of-Wessex-greeted-by-overwhelming-British-patriotism-in-Gibraltar.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220112/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/europe/spain/9324361/Earl-and-Countess-of-Wessex-greeted-by-overwhelming-British-patriotism-in-Gibraltar.html |archive-date=12 January 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live|title=Earl and Countess of Wessex greeted by overwhelming British patriotism in Gibraltar|date=11 June 2012 |publisher=hellomagazine.com|access-date=11 June 2012}}{{cbignore}}

In 2013, the couple visited South Africa. Later that year, the Countess made solo trips to India and Qatar as the patron of the sight-saving charity Orbis UK.{{cite news|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/theroyalfamily/10469258/Sophie-Wessex-The-unsung-star-of-the-Royal-family.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220112/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/theroyalfamily/10469258/Sophie-Wessex-The-unsung-star-of-the-Royal-family.html |archive-date=12 January 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live|title=Sophie Wessex: The unsung star of the Royal family|newspaper=The Telegraph|first=Ingrid|last=Seward|date=23 November 2013}}{{cbignore}}{{cite web|url=https://www.royal.uk/countess-and-qatar-creating-vision-initiative|title=Qatar Creating Vision initiative|date=31 March 2016|publisher=The Royal Family|access-date=11 March 2018|archive-date=12 March 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180312204757/https://www.royal.uk/countess-and-qatar-creating-vision-initiative|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://us.hellomagazine.com/royalty/2013092014657/sophie-wessex-tour-india-continues/|title=Sophie Wessex brings joy to eye patients in India|publisher=Hello!|date=20 September 2013|access-date=11 March 2018|archive-date=12 March 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180312144723/https://us.hellomagazine.com/royalty/2013092014657/sophie-wessex-tour-india-continues/|url-status=live}} She made a similar visit to Bangladesh in November 2017.{{cite web|url=https://ca.hellomagazine.com/royalty/02017112140216/sophie-wessex-vists-children-bangladesh|title=Sophie Wessex shows off her maternal side as she meets locals in Bangladesh|publisher=Hello!|first=Sharnaz|last=Shahid|date=21 November 2017|access-date=12 March 2018|archive-date=12 March 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180312144530/https://ca.hellomagazine.com/royalty/02017112140216/sophie-wessex-vists-children-bangladesh|url-status=dead}} Sophie, as Colonel-in-Chief of Corps of Army Music, visited The Countess of Wessex's String Orchestra at the Royal Artillery Barracks, in London. On 3 March 2014, the Queen approved the title of "The Countess of Wessex's String Orchestra" for the new Army String Orchestra in recognition of the Corps of Army Music's Colonel-in-Chief.{{cite web|url=http://www.classical-music.com/event/lunchtime-concert-countess-wessex-s-string-orchestra|title=Lunchtime Concert – The Countess of Wessex's String Orchestra|publisher=classical-music.com|access-date=27 May 2018|archive-date=28 May 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180528135232/http://www.classical-music.com/event/lunchtime-concert-countess-wessex-s-string-orchestra|url-status=dead}} In November 2014, Sophie was in Zambia representing the Queen at the state funeral of the late president of Zambia, Michael Sata.{{cite web|url=http://www.lusakavoice.com/2014/11/10/countess-of-wessex-arrives-for-satas-funeral/|title=Countess of Wessex arrives for Sata's funeral|date=10 November 2014|publisher=lusakavoice.com|access-date=10 November 2014|archive-date=12 November 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141112032204/http://lusakavoice.com/2014/11/10/countess-of-wessex-arrives-for-satas-funeral/|url-status=live}}

File:The Countess of Wessex, Cheshire Show (2015).jpg in 2015]]

On 26 March 2015, Sophie attended the reburial of Richard III of England in Leicester Cathedral.{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-leicestershire-32052800|title=Richard III: Leicester Cathedral reburial service for king|publisher=BBC|date=26 March 2015|access-date=2 January 2016|archive-date=21 August 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220821034911/https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-leicestershire-32052800|url-status=live}} In May 2015, Sophie represented the Queen in the 70th anniversary celebrations to mark the Liberation Day of the Channel Islands. The Countess delivered a message from the Queen, who paid tribute to the island's continued allegiance and loyalty to the Crown.{{cite news

|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-jersey-32664910

|title=Thousands turn out for Liberation Day celebration

|work=BBC News

|date=9 May 2015

|access-date=9 May 2015

|archive-date=14 May 2015

|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150514151021/http://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-jersey-32664910

|url-status=live

}} She visited Canada and the United States in November 2015. While in Toronto, she criss-crossed across the city, making stops at the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair and the UHN's Toronto General Hospital and Toronto Western Hospital, of which she is patron. Sophie then travelled to New York City, paying an emotional visit to the National September 11 Memorial & Museum. Sophie also made an appearance at an Armistice Day service at the Queen Elizabeth II September 11th Garden, which was opened in commemoration of the 67 British victims of the attack. The Countess later attended the 100 Women in Hedge Funds Gala dinner in Manhattan.{{cite web|url=https://ca.hellomagazine.com/royalty/02015111320113/sophie-countess-of-wessex-visits-toronto-s-royal-agricultural-winter-fair/|title=Sophie, Countess of Wessex, visits Toronto's Royal Agricultural Winter Fair|date=13 November 2015|publisher=ca.hellomagazine.com.|access-date=13 November 2015|archive-date=16 November 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151116164334/http://ca.hellomagazine.com/royalty/02015111320113/sophie-countess-of-wessex-visits-toronto-s-royal-agricultural-winter-fair/|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://ca.hellomagazine.com/royalty/2015111228193/sophie-wessex-attends-9-11-memorial/|title=Sophie Wessex pays emotional visit to 9/11 memorial in New York|date=12 November 2015|publisher=ca.hellomagazine.com.|access-date=12 November 2015|archive-date=16 November 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151116132000/http://ca.hellomagazine.com/royalty/2015111228193/sophie-wessex-attends-9-11-memorial/|url-status=live}}

The Earl and Countess of Wessex toured Canada in June 2016, visiting Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta. The couple visited a variety of places in and around Regina, Saskatchewan before attending the Globe Theatre's 50th anniversary gala.{{cite web|url=https://www.royal.uk/earl-and-countess-wessex-visit-canada|title=The Earl and Countess of Wessex visit Canada|date=28 June 2016|publisher=royal.uk|access-date=28 June 2016|archive-date=6 November 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161106030811/https://www.royal.uk/earl-and-countess-wessex-visit-canada|url-status=live}} In March 2017, Sophie embarked on a 4-day visit to Malawi as Vice-Patron of The Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Trust, visiting programmes to end avoidable blindness and champion young leaders.{{cite web|url=http://www.jubileetribute.org/news/2017/trust-vice-patron-to-visit-malawi-in-commonwealth-week-to-see-the-work-of-the-trust|title=Trust Vice-Patron to visit Malawi in Commonwealth Week to see the work of the Trust|publisher=jubileetribute.org|access-date=6 March 2017|archive-date=15 March 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170315055838/http://www.jubileetribute.org/news/2017/trust-vice-patron-to-visit-malawi-in-commonwealth-week-to-see-the-work-of-the-trust|url-status=live}} On 9 May 2017, the Countess attended King Harald and Queen Sonja of Norway's 80th Birthday Celebrations on behalf of the royal family.{{cite web|url=https://www.hellomagazine.com/royalty/2017051038804/sophie-wessex-king-harald-queen-sonja-80th-birthday-celebrations/|title=Sophie Wessex makes glamorous appearance at royal birthday gathering|date=10 May 2017|publisher=hellomagazine.com|access-date=10 May 2017|archive-date=27 May 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180527202938/https://www.hellomagazine.com/royalty/2017051038804/sophie-wessex-king-harald-queen-sonja-80th-birthday-celebrations/|url-status=live}} The Earl and Countess of Wessex represented the Queen at the 50th Anniversary Celebrations of Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah's Accession to the Throne of Brunei in October 2017.{{cite web|url=https://www.thecrownchronicles.co.uk/royal-news/edward-sophie-attend-sultan-bruneis-golden-jubilee-celebrations/|title=Edward & Sophie attend Sultan of Brunei's Golden Jubilee celebrations|date=5 October 2017|publisher=thecrownchronicles.co.uk|access-date=10 May 2018|archive-date=11 May 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180511082012/https://www.thecrownchronicles.co.uk/royal-news/edward-sophie-attend-sultan-bruneis-golden-jubilee-celebrations/|url-status=live}} On 30 November 2017, Sophie visited the 'Making for Change' fashion training and manufacturing unit, a fashion training and manufacturing unit established by the Ministry of Justice and London College of Fashion at HM Prison Downview as patron of the London College of Fashion During her visit, the Countess met staff and prisoners, including female inmates, and awarded participants with certificates as part of their training programme.{{cite tweet|user=RoyalFamily|author=The Royal Family|number=936294984977997824|title='Making for Change' is a fashion training & manufacturing unit established by the Ministry of Justice and London College of Fashion, @UAL in 2014 at HMP Holloway. It moved to its new home of HMP Downview in summer 2016.|date=30 November 2017}}{{cite tweet|user=RoyalFamily|author=The Royal Family|number=936295249860800512|title=The Countess met staff and prisoners, including female inmate Trudy, and awarded participants with certificates as part of their training programme. Trudy received her ABC Level 1 Certificate in Fashion and Textiles.|date=30 November 2017}}

File:The Countess of Wessex, Titanic Belfast, 2018 (5).jpg in 2018]]

An avid supporter of charities that deal with learning disabilities, Sophie made a solo trip to Belfast in January 2018 to visit a number of charities that she had supported through her work over the last decade, including Mencap's children's centre.{{cite web|url=http://www.itv.com/news/utv/2018-01-23/sophie-countess-of-wessex-visits-ni-charities/|title=Sophie, Countess of Wessex visits NI charities|publisher=ITV|date=23 January 2018|access-date=11 March 2018|archive-date=13 March 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180313031314/http://www.itv.com/news/utv/2018-01-23/sophie-countess-of-wessex-visits-ni-charities/|url-status=live}} She also opened the new dementia-friendly unit of Northern Ireland Hospice, the first of its kind in the UK. The Earl and Countess of Wessex visited Sri Lanka in February 2018 to celebrate the 70th Anniversary of Independence, Sri Lanka–United Kingdom relations, the Commonwealth, education and young people.{{cite web|url=https://www.royal.uk/earl-and-countess-wessex-commemorate-sri-lankas-70th-anniversary-independence|title=The Earl and Countess of Wessex commemorate Sri Lanka's 70th Anniversary of Independence|date=7 February 2018|publisher=royal.uk|access-date=7 February 2018|archive-date=7 February 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180207143222/https://www.royal.uk/earl-and-countess-wessex-commemorate-sri-lankas-70th-anniversary-independence|url-status=live}} In October 2018, Edward and Sophie toured the Baltic states.{{cite web|url=https://news.err.ee/867417/kaljulaid-uk-has-been-estonia-s-ally-for-100-years|title=Kaljulaid: UK has been Estonia's ally for 100 years|publisher=ERR News|date=8 October 2018|access-date=9 October 2018|archive-date=8 October 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181008115436/https://news.err.ee/867417/kaljulaid-uk-has-been-estonia-s-ally-for-100-years|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://www.royal.uk/royal-visit-baltics|title=The Earl and Countess of Wessex visit the Baltic States|date=5 October 2018|publisher=The Royal Family|access-date=13 October 2018|archive-date=14 October 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181014010209/https://www.royal.uk/royal-visit-baltics|url-status=live}}

In March 2019, the Countess travelled to New York City to attend the 63rd session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW). The annual event brought together more than 9,000 gender equality representatives from around the world. The CSW is "the principal global intergovernmental body exclusively dedicated to the promotion of gender equality and the empowerment of women."{{cite web|url=https://www.royal.uk/countess-wessex-attends-commission-status-women-un|title=The Countess of Wessex attends the Commission on the Status of Women at the UN|date=13 March 2019|publisher=royal.uk|access-date=13 March 2019|archive-date=21 March 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190321093439/https://www.royal.uk/countess-wessex-attends-commission-status-women-un|url-status=live}} From 29 April to 3 May 2019, the Countess, Vice-Patron of the Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Trust, visited India in her final overseas tour as vice-patron ahead of the Trust's planned closure in January 2020. Sophie saw the work the charitable foundation has supported to tackle avoidable blindness and heard about programmes successfully launched by Queen's Young Leaders.{{cite web|url=https://www.royal.uk/countess-wessex-will-visit-india|title=The Countess of Wessex will visit India|date=23 April 2019|publisher=royal.co.uk|access-date=23 April 2019|archive-date=23 April 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190423111941/https://www.royal.uk/countess-wessex-will-visit-india|url-status=live}}

In July 2019, the Earl and Countess visited Forfar on their first official visit to the town since the Queen granted the Earl the additional title Earl of Forfar in March 2019.{{cite web|url=https://www.royal.uk/earl-and-countess-forfar-visit-forfar|title=The Earl and Countess of Forfar visit Forfar|date=July 2019|publisher=royal.uk|access-date=1 July 2019|archive-date=4 November 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211104134723/https://www.royal.uk/earl-and-countess-forfar-visit-forfar|url-status=live}} Later in October, Sophie visited Kosovo to meet victims of sexual violence after the Kosovo War and their families.{{cite web|url=https://www.hellomagazine.com/fashion/royal-style/2019101779304/sophie-wessex-pink-emilia-wickstead-dress-kosovo/|title=The Countess of Wessex looks like a film star in a pink Emilia Wickstead dress|magazine=Hello!|first=Laura|last=Sutcliffe|date=17 October 2019|access-date=17 October 2019|archive-date=18 October 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191018013551/https://www.hellomagazine.com/fashion/royal-style/2019101779304/sophie-wessex-pink-emilia-wickstead-dress-kosovo/|url-status=live}} By the end of 2019, Sophie had completed 236 official engagements. In March 2020, Sophie became the first member of the royal family to visit South Sudan. During the visit, which was requested by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, Sophie met victims and survivors of gender-based violence and promoted their rights by meeting the female political leaders in the country.{{cite web|url=https://www.msn.com/en-gb/news/uknews/countess-of-wessex-to-promote-womens-rights-during-trip-to-south-sudan/ar-BB10HgzM|title=Countess of Wessex to promote women's rights during trip to South Sudan|publisher=MSN|date=4 March 2020|access-date=7 March 2020|archive-date=7 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200807090050/https://www.msn.com/en-gb/news/uknews/countess-of-wessex-to-promote-womens-rights-during-trip-to-south-sudan/ar-BB10HgzM|url-status=live}}

In January 2022, the Countess went on a solo visit to Qatar in her capacity as the global ambassador for the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB) to support the organisation's '2030 in Sight' initiative and visit projects by the Qatar Fund and Orbis International aimed at improving eye tests and treatments in India and Bangladesh.{{cite web|url=https://www.hellomagazine.com/fashion/royal-style/20220111130542/countess-sophie-wessex-wears-bold-dress-qatar/|title=The Countess of Wessex wears a truly sensational dress in Qatar|work=Hello!|first=Laura|last=Sutcliffe|date=11 January 2022|access-date=13 January 2022|archive-date=13 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220113000834/https://www.hellomagazine.com/fashion/royal-style/20220111130542/countess-sophie-wessex-wears-bold-dress-qatar/|url-status=live}} As a supporter of the Women Peace and Security Network she met with Afghan women refugees who had been evacuated from the country following the 2021 Taliban offensive. In March 2022, Sophie went on a four-day solo trip to New York City, visiting the Queen Elizabeth II September 11th Garden and Consuls General from across the Commonwealth to mark the Commonwealth Day.{{cite web|url=https://people.com/royals/sophie-countess-wessex-arrives-new-york-city/|title=Royal in the States! Sophie, Countess of Wessex Arrives in New York City for 4-Day Visit|work=People|first=Stephanie|last=Petit|date=14 March 2022|access-date=15 March 2022|archive-date=14 March 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220314214851/https://people.com/royals/sophie-countess-wessex-arrives-new-york-city/|url-status=live}} She also delivered the keynote address on women's rights in Afghanistan at an event hosted by the UN Women and the Georgetown Institute for Women, Peace and Security.

In April 2022, Edward and Sophie toured Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and Antigua and Barbuda to mark the Queen's Platinum Jubilee.{{cite web|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/royal-family/2022/04/23/earl-countess-wessex-met-protests-second-leg-caribbean-tour/|title=Earl and Countess of Wessex met by protests on second leg of Caribbean tour|work=The Telegraph|first=Patrick|last=Sawer|date=23 April 2022|access-date=24 April 2022|url-access=subscription|archive-date=23 April 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220423205512/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/royal-family/2022/04/23/earl-countess-wessex-met-protests-second-leg-caribbean-tour/|url-status=live}} Their planned visit to Grenada was postponed after talks with the island's government and governor general, and the couple expressed their hopes to visit the country on a later date.{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-61183853|title=Earl and Countess of Wessex: Prince Edward and Sophie postpone Grenada trip|work=BBC|first=Charley|last=Adams|date=22 April 2022|access-date=24 April 2022|archive-date=9 September 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220909170950/https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-61183853|url-status=live}} In October 2022, she visited the Democratic Republic of the Congo to engage with projects preventing sexual and gender-based violence in conflict, becoming the first member of the royal family to visit the country.{{cite web|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/royal-family/2022/10/03/sophie-countess-wessex-becomes-first-royal-visit-democratic/|title=Sophie, Countess of Wessex becomes first Royal to visit the Democratic Republic of the Congo|work=The Telegraph|first=Victoria|last=Ward|date=3 October 2022|access-date=4 October 2022|url-access=subscription|archive-date=4 October 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221004034159/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/royal-family/2022/10/03/sophie-countess-wessex-becomes-first-royal-visit-democratic/|url-status=live}} The tour also included visits to Rwanda, Botswana, and Malawi.{{cite web|url=https://www.royal.uk/countess-wessex-visits-democratic-republic-congo|title=The Countess of Wessex visits the Democratic Republic of the Congo|work=The Royal Family|date=4 October 2022|access-date=11 October 2022|archive-date=11 October 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221011160819/https://www.royal.uk/countess-wessex-visits-democratic-republic-congo|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://www.royal.uk/countess-wessex-visits-botswana-and-malawi|title=The Countess of Wessex visits Botswana and Malawi|work=The Royal Family|date=11 October 2022|access-date=11 October 2022|archive-date=11 October 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221011160730/https://www.royal.uk/countess-wessex-visits-botswana-and-malawi|url-status=live}} After her husband was created Duke of Edinburgh on his 59th birthday, Sophie and Edward visited Edinburgh to meet with members of the Ukrainian and Eastern European communities in the city, some of whom were displaced following the Russian invasion of Ukraine.{{cite web|url=https://people.com/royals/prince-edward-sophie-visit-scotland-duke-duchess-edinburgh-new-royal-titles/|title=Prince Edward and Sophie Step Out in Scotland as the New Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh|work=People|first=Simon|last=Perry|date=10 March 2023|accessdate=10 March 2023|archive-date=27 September 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230927133819/https://people.com/royals/prince-edward-sophie-visit-scotland-duke-duchess-edinburgh-new-royal-titles/|url-status=live}} In May 2023, Sophie visited Iraq at the request of the Foreign Office to promote the Women, Peace and Security agenda and raise awareness about conflict-related sexual violence.{{cite web|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/royal-family/2023/05/23/duchess-of-edinburgh-iraq-baghdad-conflict-sexual-violence/|title=Duchess of Edinburgh visits Iraq to champion survivors of conflict-related sexual violence|work=The Telegraph|first=Victoria|last=Ward|date=23 May 2023|accessdate=23 May 2023|url-access=subscription|archive-date=23 May 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230523135900/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/royal-family/2023/05/23/duchess-of-edinburgh-iraq-baghdad-conflict-sexual-violence/|url-status=live}} She became the first member of the royal family to visit Baghdad.{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-65684842|title=Duchess of Edinburgh becomes first royal to visit Baghdad in Iraq|work=BBC News|first=Rachel|last=Russell|date=23 May 2023|accessdate=23 May 2023|archive-date=23 May 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230523173223/https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-65684842|url-status=live}} On 29 April 2024, the Duchess visited Ukraine, the first British royal to make the trip since the Russian invasion, where she met with President Volodymyr Zelenskyi. Sophie also met with survivors of war-related sexual violence and torture as well as children who had been returned to Ukraine after being abducted from their families by Russia. She also paid her respects to victims of the massacre in Bucha.{{cite news |title=Duchess Sophie visits Ukraine in first trip by British royal since start of war |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/duchess-sophie-visits-ukraine-first-trip-by-british-royal-since-start-war-2024-04-29/ |access-date=29 April 2024 |work=Reuters |date=29 April 2024}} In October 2024, she became the first member of the royal family to visit Chad where she met with refugees who had fled to the country following the Sudanese civil war and had experienced sexual violence during the conflict.{{cite news|url=https://news.sky.com/story/sophie-duchess-of-edinburgh-in-tears-after-meeting-sexual-violence-victims-who-fled-sudan-civil-war-13233466|title=Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, in tears after meeting sexual violence victims who fled Sudan civil war|work=Sky News|date=14 October 2024|access-date=17 October 2024}}

Charity work and patronage

File:PSVI Film Festival Fighting Stigma Through Film (45997834121).jpg.]]

The Earl and Countess of Wessex established their foundation The Wessex Youth Trust in 1999 to support initiatives and charities that help children and young people.{{cite web|url=http://www.wessexyouthtrust.org.uk/|title=The Wessex Youth Trust|publisher=wessexyouthtrust.org.uk|access-date=9 May 2018|archive-date=22 January 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190122013330/https://wessexyouthtrust.org.uk/|url-status=live}} After twenty years of operation, the Wessex Youth Trust was renamed the Earl and Countess of Wessex Charitable Trust in 2019 and its management was transferred to the Private Office of the Earl and Countess of Wessex and Forfar. It was announced that the Trust's broad charitable objectives would not change, however, their future efforts would be aimed towards supporting a different range of charities.{{cite web|url=https://wessexyouthtrust.org.uk/index.php|title=Changes to The Wessex Youth Trust|publisher=wessexyouthtrust.org.uk|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190706091141/https://wessexyouthtrust.org.uk/index.php|archive-date=6 July 2019}}

In 2000, she became patron of a number of organisations, including Foundation of Light (formerly Sunderland A.F.C Foundation) which develops educational and community programmes in northern England, based around football.{{cite web|url=https://www.sunderlandecho.com/news/sunderland-afc-gets-royal-recognition-1-7113892|title=Sunderland AFC gets royal recognition|publisher=Sunderland Echo|date=19 February 2015|access-date=11 March 2018|archive-date=12 March 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180312083857/https://www.sunderlandecho.com/news/sunderland-afc-gets-royal-recognition-1-7113892|url-status=dead}} Moved by the death of her friend Jill Dando in 1999, the Countess became a trustee of UCL Jill Dando Institute, an institute of crime science established in her name in 2001. As a full-time member of the royal family, part of her focus became charities that dealt with communications difficulties, including Southampton General Hospital, and the New Haven Trust in Toronto, a learning centre for children with autism. In 2003, she became patron of Tomorrow's People Trust, which helps the disadvantaged to find work, housing and a place in society.{{cite web |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/1422500/Sophie-takes-first-steps-towards-a-royal-career.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220112/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/1422500/Sophie-takes-first-steps-towards-a-royal-career.html |archive-date=12 January 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live |title= Sophie takes first steps towards a royal career |work= The Telegraph |date= 19 February 2003 |access-date= 23 April 2013}}{{cbignore}} In February 2003, Sophie became patron and ambassador of Meningitis Now, a charity that supports meningitis patients and raises awareness of the disease.{{cite web|url=https://www.meningitisnow.org/support-us/who-we-are/our-team/her-royal-highness/|title=Her Royal Highness The Countess of Wessex|publisher=meningitisnow.org.uk|access-date=9 June 2018|archive-date=12 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180612142050/https://www.meningitisnow.org/support-us/who-we-are/our-team/her-royal-highness/|url-status=live}} Later that month, she became patron to The Scar Free Foundation, a medical research charity coordinating funds in wound healing, burns and cleft research.{{cite web|url=http://scarfree.org.uk/about-us|title=We have a Single Aim: A World Without Scarring|publisher=scarfree.org.uk|access-date=3 June 2018|archive-date=12 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180612154658/http://scarfree.org.uk/about-us|url-status=live}} In 2003, she succeeded Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother as patron of the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists.{{cite web|url=https://www.rcslt.org/about/introduction|title=Introducing the RCSLT|publisher=rcslt.org|access-date=4 June 2018|archive-date=12 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180612140914/https://www.rcslt.org/about/introduction|url-status=dead}} Also in 2003, she became patron of the Moor House School & College, which specialises in helping children who have Developmental language disorder.{{cite web |url=https://www.moorhouseschool.co.uk/news/?pid=0&nid=1&storyid=276 |title=Therapy and Specialist Teaching Hub officially opened |access-date=12 January 2025}}

Sophie, who was a Brownie as a child, became the new president of Girlguiding UK in 2003, following the death of Princess Margaret in February 2002,{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/2971823.stm|title=Countess is girlguides new president|date=12 June 2003|publisher=BBC|access-date=12 June 2003|archive-date=14 June 2003|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20030614013402/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/2971823.stm|url-status=live}} and remained in that position until 2024 when she became the organisation's patron subsequent to the Queen's death in 2022.{{cite tweet |author=Girlguiding |author-link=Girlguiding |user=Girlguiding |number=1841734987416015151 |date=3 October 2024 |title=We're proud to announce that HRH The Duchess of Edinburgh is our new patron. |access-date=3 October 2024}} She established the Women in Business Group in 2003 to support the Duke of Edinburgh's Award and reach more young people to help them develop skills that can transform their futures.{{cite web|url=https://www.dofe.org/press/trh-the-earl-and-countess-of-wessex-attend-the-dofe-women-in-business-celebration/|title=TRH The Earl and Countess of Wessex attend DofE Women in Business celebration|publisher=The Duke of Edinburgh's Award|access-date=11 March 2018|archive-date=12 March 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180312150525/https://www.dofe.org/press/trh-the-earl-and-countess-of-wessex-attend-the-dofe-women-in-business-celebration/|url-status=dead}} The Countess became president of the Brainwave Centre in 2003, a charity providing therapy for children with developmental delay.{{cite web|url=https://www.brainwave.org.uk/president|title=President|publisher=brainwave.org.uk|access-date=10 June 2018|archive-date=12 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180612141637/https://www.brainwave.org.uk/president|url-status=dead}} In June 2003, she became patron of the Greater London Fund for the Blind, which raises funds for smaller charities for visually impaired people in London.{{cite news|url=https://www.thetimes.com/edition/news/announcements-l2rpgbgjdfm|title=Announcements|work=The Times|access-date=7 June 2003|url-access=subscription|archive-date=12 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180612144259/https://www.thetimes.co.uk/edition/news/announcements-l2rpgbgjdfm|url-status=live}} In August 2003, the Countess received patronage of the National Autistic Society, passed down from the Princess Royal.{{cite web|url=http://www.autism.org.uk/structure#royal%20patron|title=Our structure and people|publisher=autism.org.uk|access-date=9 June 2018|archive-date=12 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180612141315/http://www.autism.org.uk/structure#royal%20patron|url-status=live}} In 2004, she joined St John Ambulance as grand president, and heads the work of St John's County Presidents, who provide a variety of support for their local St John members.{{cite web|url=https://www.royal.uk/countess-wessex-attends-st-john-ambulance-everyday-heroes-awards?page=4|title=The Countess of Wessex attends the St John Ambulance Everyday Heroes Awards|date=7 September 2016|publisher=royal.gov.uk|access-date=7 September 2016|archive-date=9 May 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180509013412/https://www.royal.uk/countess-wessex-attends-st-john-ambulance-everyday-heroes-awards?page=4|url-status=live}} She was associated with ChildLine for many years, preceding her appointment as their first ever royal patron in 2005.{{cite web|url=https://www.royal.uk/countess-celebrates-30-years-childline|title=The Countess celebrates 30 years of ChildLine|date=17 March 2016|publisher=royal.uk|access-date=17 March 2016|archive-date=13 November 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161113173912/https://www.royal.uk/countess-celebrates-30-years-childline|url-status=live}} In 2006, she lent her support to the Born in Bradford research project, which investigated causes of low birth weight and infant mortality between 2007 and 2010.{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/6261538.stm|title=Profile: Earl and Countess of Wessex|publisher=BBC|date=2 July 2007|access-date=11 March 2018|archive-date=12 March 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180312085830/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/6261538.stm|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/england/bradford/6090212.stm|title=Study of 10,000 babies launched|publisher=BBC|date=27 October 2006|access-date=11 March 2018|archive-date=12 March 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180312085558/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/england/bradford/6090212.stm|url-status=live}} In September 2006, she was appointed an Honorary Fellow of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists.{{cite web|url=https://www.rcog.org.uk/en/about-us/membership/membership-categories/honorary-fellows/|title=Honorary Fellows|publisher=rcog.org.uk|access-date=9 June 2018|archive-date=12 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180612141208/https://www.rcog.org.uk/en/about-us/membership/membership-categories/honorary-fellows/|url-status=dead}} In the same year, she became patron of England Hockey.{{cite web|url=https://www.royal.uk/countess-wessex-and-lady-louise-meet-england-hockey|title=The Countess of Wessex and Lady Louise meet England Hockey|work=The Royal Family|date=8 January 2020|access-date=3 August 2022|archive-date=20 September 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220920163714/https://www.royal.uk/countess-wessex-and-lady-louise-meet-england-hockey|url-status=live}}

Sophie is a supporter of agriculture, farming and food production and held the position of show president of the Royal Bath and West Show in 2010 before becoming vice patron in 2011.{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-somerset-13753404|title=Countess of Wessex vice patron at Bath and West society|work=BBC News|date=13 June 2011|access-date=13 June 2011|archive-date=26 May 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180526115619/http://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-somerset-13753404|url-status=live}} She is also patron of the Association of Show and Agricultural Organisations{{cite tweet|user=RoyalFamily|author=The Royal Family|number=975722508220592131|date=19 March 2018|title=The Countess of Wessex as Patron of the Association of Show and Agricultural Organisations}} and has been patron of the Border Union Agricultural Society since its bicentennial year in 2012.{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-scotland-south-scotland-16612233|title=Countess of Wessex takes 200th Border Union Show role|work=BBC News|date=19 January 2012|access-date=19 January 2012|archive-date=26 May 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180526115628/http://www.bbc.com/news/uk-scotland-south-scotland-16612233|url-status=live}} Sophie works to support the 'Campaign for Wool', which was set up by the then-Prince of Wales, and aims to promote the use of British wool.{{cite web|url=http://www.britishwool.org.uk/news/the-countess-of-wessex-opens-new-wool-board-offices.php|title=The Countess of Wessex Opens New Wool Board Offices|publisher=britishwool.org.uk|access-date=25 May 2018|archive-date=26 May 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180526041833/http://www.britishwool.org.uk/news/the-countess-of-wessex-opens-new-wool-board-offices.php|url-status=live}} During her 2013 trips to India, and Qatar, the Countess visited numerous facilities in her capacity as patron of Vision 2020: The Right to Sight and ambassador for IAPB, in order to raise awareness about preventable blindness. Her work on the issue has been described as influential in creating the Qatar Creating Vision initiative. In 2013, Sophie became the first ever patron of the London College of Fashion and was announced as the royal patron of British Wheelchair Basketball.{{cite web|url=http://fashion.telegraph.co.uk/news-features/TMG9938170/The-Countess-of-Wessex-appointed-patron-of-London-College-of-Fashion.html|title=The Countess of Wessex appointed patron of London College of Fashion|work=The Telegraph|access-date=18 March 2013|url-access=subscription|archive-date=20 March 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130320112932/http://fashion.telegraph.co.uk/news-features/TMG9938170/The-Countess-of-Wessex-appointed-patron-of-London-College-of-Fashion.html|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://www.itv.com/news/central/update/2013-07-23/loughborough-charity-announces-new-royal-patron/|title=Loughborough charity announces new Royal Patron|work=ITV|date=23 July 2013|access-date=3 August 2022|archive-date=3 August 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220803070620/https://www.itv.com/news/central/update/2013-07-23/loughborough-charity-announces-new-royal-patron/|url-status=live}} In June 2013, she was appointed global ambassador for the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award Foundation, an umbrella body co-ordinating organisations running the Duke of Edinburgh's Award worldwide.{{cite web|url=http://www.intaward.org/news/hrh-countess-wessex-appointed-global-ambassador|title=HRH The Countess of Wessex appointed Global Ambassador|publisher=intaward.org|access-date=7 October 2013|archive-date=23 October 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131023011700/http://www.intaward.org/news/hrh-countess-wessex-appointed-global-ambassador|url-status=dead}} She has been the founder and chairman of the Duke of Edinburgh's Award Women's Network Forum since January 2014, whose goal is the advancement of gender balance and equality by influencing business leaders, inspiring the next generation and sharing best practice. In June 2014, the Countess was appointed the patron of Ubunye Foundation, based in the Eastern Cape, South Africa, a rural development trust dedicated to unlocking the potential of rural communities.{{cite web|url=http://www.ubunyefoundation.co.za/news/a-royal-boost-for-the-ubunye-foundation.htm|title=A Royal Boost for the Ubunye Foundation|publisher=ubunyefoundation.co.za|access-date=20 June 2014|archive-date=11 March 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160311123632/http://www.ubunyefoundation.co.za/news/a-royal-boost-for-the-ubunye-foundation.htm|url-status=dead}}

On Sophie's 50th birthday, she became vice patron of the Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Trust, a charitable foundation established in 2012 for Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee.{{cite web|url=http://www.jubileetribute.org/news/2015/hrh-the-countess-of-wessex-announced-as-vice-patron-of-the-trust|title=HRH The Countess of Wessex announced as Vice-Patron of the Trust|publisher=jubileetribute.org|access-date=20 January 2015|archive-date=9 May 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180509220342/http://www.jubileetribute.org/news/2015/hrh-the-countess-of-wessex-announced-as-vice-patron-of-the-trust|url-status=live}} The trust was a time-limited foundation and closed on 31 January 2020.{{cite web|url=https://www.royal.uk/countess-wessex-will-visit-india|title=The Countess of Wessex will visit India|date=23 April 2019|publisher=royal.co.uk|access-date=23 April 2019|archive-date=23 April 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190423111941/https://www.royal.uk/countess-wessex-will-visit-india|url-status=live}} In February 2015, the Queen gave a joint reception to celebrate the 50th birthdays of the Earl and Countess, as well as their patronages and affiliations, at Buckingham Palace. Elizabeth, accompanied by the couple, met key supporters, staff, volunteers and alumni from the charities of their patronage and presidency, as well as representatives from their various military appointments.{{cite tweet|user=RoyalFamily|author=The Royal Family|number=565261246334001154|date=10 February 2015|title=The Queen and The Countess meet @ERantzen, representing @ISPCCChildline, and @RealRobFahey at TRH birthday reception}} In November 2015, 100 Women in Hedge Funds announced that the Countess will serve as Global Ambassador of 100WF's Next Generation initiatives.{{cite web|url=https://www.100womeninhedgefunds.org/pages/global_ambassador.php|title=HRH The Countess of Wessex – Global Ambassador, 100WF's Next Generation initiatives|publisher=100womeninhedgefunds.org|access-date=9 May 2018|archive-date=10 May 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180510051658/https://www.100womeninhedgefunds.org/pages/global_ambassador.php|url-status=dead}} In September 2016, Sophie took part in a cycling challenge from the Holyrood Palace to Buckingham Palace for the Duke of Edinburgh's Award Diamond Challenge. The ride raised more than £180,000 for the Award, which was celebrating its 60th anniversary.{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-37467530|title=Countess of Wessex completes 450-mile cycling challenge|work=BBC News|date=25 September 2016|access-date=25 September 2016|archive-date=25 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160925171934/http://www.bbc.com/news/uk-37467530|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/av/uk-36255808/sophie-countess-of-wessex-on-cycling-challenge|title=Sophie, Countess of Wessex, on cycling challenge |publisher=BBC|date=10 May 2016|access-date=11 March 2018|archive-date=1 May 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180501005140/http://www.bbc.com/news/av/uk-36255808/sophie-countess-of-wessex-on-cycling-challenge|url-status=live}} Linking Environment And Farming named Sophie as its new honorary president in October 2016.{{cite web|url=https://www.farminguk.com/News/LEAF-announces-Countess-of-Wessex-as-new-Honorary-President_44542.html|title=LEAF announces Countess of Wessex as new Honorary President|publisher=FarmingUK News |date=20 October 2016 |access-date=20 October 2016|archive-date=21 October 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161021131453/http://www.farminguk.com/News/LEAF-announces-Countess-of-Wessex-as-new-Honorary-President_44542.html|url-status=live}} In November 2016, she was announced as Women of the Future's official ambassador, which supports and celebrates the successes of young women.{{cite web|url=http://womenofthefuture.co.uk/uncategorized/her-royal-highness-the-countess-of-wessex-announced-as-women-of-the-futures-official-ambassador/|title=Her Royal Highness The Countess of Wessex announced as Women of the Future's official Ambassador|publisher=Women of the Future Programme |access-date=9 May 2018|archive-date=10 May 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180510120904/http://womenofthefuture.co.uk/uncategorized/her-royal-highness-the-countess-of-wessex-announced-as-women-of-the-futures-official-ambassador/|url-status=live}} In December 2016, the Countess participated in ICAP charity day in order to raise money for Shooting Star Chase,{{cite web|url=https://us.hellomagazine.com/royalty/2016120735084/sophie-wessex-icap-charity-day/|title=Sophie Wessex takes to the trading floor for charity: 'That was so easy!'|publisher=Hello!|first=Emily|last=Nash|date=7 December 2016|access-date=11 March 2018|archive-date=12 March 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180312144549/https://us.hellomagazine.com/royalty/2016120735084/sophie-wessex-icap-charity-day/|url-status=live}} a children's hospice of which she is patron.{{cite web|url=https://us.hellomagazine.com/royalty/2016020929703/sophie-wessex-visits-childrens-hospice/|title=Sophie Wessex makes emotional visit to children's hospice|publisher=Hello!|first=Ainhoa|last=Barcelona|date=9 February 2016|access-date=11 March 2018|archive-date=12 March 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180312144531/https://us.hellomagazine.com/royalty/2016020929703/sophie-wessex-visits-childrens-hospice/|url-status=live}} During the same month, after the Queen stepped down from her position as patron of numerous charities, Sophie replaced her as the principal patron of NSPCC, Blind Veterans UK and British Cycling Federation.{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-38380285|title=Queen steps down as patron of children's charities|publisher=BBC|date=20 December 2016|access-date=11 March 2018|archive-date=22 September 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220922085112/https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-38380285|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://www.cobseo.org.uk/blind-veteran-cumbria-meets-countess-wessex-military-charitys-hampton-court-show-garden/|title=Blind veteran from Cumbria meets The Countess of Wessex at military charity's Hampton Court show garden|publisher=The Confederation of Service Charities|date=4 July 2017|access-date=11 March 2018|archive-date=12 March 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180312144138/https://www.cobseo.org.uk/blind-veteran-cumbria-meets-countess-wessex-military-charitys-hampton-court-show-garden/|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://www.royal.uk/charities-and-patronages?name=&%3Bmrf=5&%3Bfield_themes_target_id=&%3Bfield_world_region_value=&%3Bpage=1&page=18|title=Charities and Patronages|publisher=royal.uk|access-date=9 May 2018|archive-date=10 May 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180510050832/https://www.royal.uk/charities-and-patronages?name=&%3Bmrf=5&%3Bfield_themes_target_id=&%3Bfield_world_region_value=&%3Bpage=1&page=18|url-status=live}}

The Countess of Wessex was elected president of the Devon County Agricultural Association in February 2017.{{cite web|url=http://www.middevonadvertiser.co.uk/article.cfm?id=107875&headline=Countess+elected+president+of+agricultural+association§ionIs=news&searchyear=2017|title=Countess elected president of agricultural association|publisher=middevonadvertiser.co.uk|access-date=25 January 2017|archive-date=18 February 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220218021056/https://www.middevonadvertiser.co.uk/article.cfm?id=107875&headline=Countess+elected+president+of+agricultural+association§ionIs=news&searchyear=2017|url-status=dead}} In May 2017, as patron of the British Bobsleigh and Skeleton Association Sophie attended its 90th anniversary and commemorative athlete awards dinner.{{cite web|url=http://www.thebbsa.co.uk/2016/gold-medalist-confirmed-as-guest-speaker/|title=GOLD MEDALIST CONFIRMED AS GUEST SPEAKER|publisher=thebbsa.co.uk|access-date=13 May 2018|archive-date=12 May 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180512112455/http://www.thebbsa.co.uk/2016/gold-medalist-confirmed-as-guest-speaker/|url-status=live}} The Ice Maiden, five British Army women, received royal patronage from the Countess for their ambitious coast-to-coast ski expedition across Antarctica in October 2017. The team aimed to inspire women and girls everywhere to challenge perceptions and grow their ambitions.{{cite web|url=http://icemaiden.erhosting.co.uk/meet-the-team/|title=Meet the Team|publisher=icemaiden.erhosting.co.uk|access-date=11 May 2018|archive-date=12 May 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180512043904/http://icemaiden.erhosting.co.uk/meet-the-team/|url-status=dead}}{{cite tweet|user=RoyalFamily|author=The Royal Family|number=954772311768518661|date=20 January 2018|title='Congratulations Ice Maidens!' – The Countess of Wessex.}} In January 2018, Sophie became the Royal Patron of the Nursing Memorial Appeal. The Appeal aims to create a memorial dedicated to the 1,500 nurses who gave their lives in First and Second World Wars.{{cite tweet|user=RoyalFamily|author=The Royal Family|number=954767684805283840|date=20 January 2018|title=Today it has been announced that The Countess of Wessex will be the Royal Patron of The Nursing Memorial Appeal.}} In February 2018, Westmorland Agricultural Society welcomed the Countess as its president.{{cite web|url=https://westmorlandshow.co.uk/countess-of-wessex-takes-up-top-role-at-westmorland-agricultural-society/|title=Countess of Wessex takes up top role at Westmorland Agricultural Society|publisher=westmorlandshow.co.uk|access-date=8 February 2018|archive-date=11 February 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180211082043/http://westmorlandshow.co.uk/countess-of-wessex-takes-up-top-role-at-westmorland-agricultural-society/|url-status=live}} In January 2019, Sophie became the patron of the Thames Valley Air Ambulance, which saved her life during her ectopic pregnancy in 2001.{{cite web|url=http://royalcentral.co.uk/uk/wessexes/the-countess-of-wessex-becomes-royal-patron-of-thames-valley-air-ambulance-114529|title=The Countess of Wessex becomes Royal Patron of Thames Valley Air Ambulance|date=21 January 2019|publisher=RoyalCentral.co.uk|access-date=21 January 2019|archive-date=23 January 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190123203035/http://royalcentral.co.uk/uk/wessexes/the-countess-of-wessex-becomes-royal-patron-of-thames-valley-air-ambulance-114529|url-status=live}}

On 29 January, she was elected president of the Royal Smithfield Club, which promotes the education and knowledge to advance best practice in the meat and livestock industry.{{cite web|url=https://www.royalsmithfieldclub.co.uk/latest-news-1/2019/2/9/countess-of-wessex-is-new-smithfield-president-house-of-lords-forum-plots-way-forward-for-red-meat-sector|title=Countess of Wessex is New Smithfield President|date=9 February 2019|publisher=royalsmithfieldclub.co.uk|access-date=9 February 2019|archive-date=21 March 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190321095533/https://www.royalsmithfieldclub.co.uk/latest-news-1/2019/2/9/countess-of-wessex-is-new-smithfield-president-house-of-lords-forum-plots-way-forward-for-red-meat-sector|url-status=live}}

On International Women's Day March 2019, Sophie officially announced her involvement in taking a stand against sex crimes in conflict zones, joining Angelina Jolie to work with the Preventing Sexual Violence in Conflict Initiative (PSVI) as well as Women, Peace and Security (WPS) formed 20 years ago to tackle the impact of armed conflict on women and girls, and to promote the positive role women play in building peace and stability.{{cite news|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/royal-family/2019/03/06/countess-wessex-teams-angelina-jolie-end-rape-sexual-violence/ |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220112/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/royal-family/2019/03/06/countess-wessex-teams-angelina-jolie-end-rape-sexual-violence/ |archive-date=12 January 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live|title=Countess of Wessex teams up with Angelina Jolie to end rape and sexual violence in war zones|newspaper=The Telegraph |date=6 March 2019 |access-date=6 March 2019|last1=Tominey |first1=Camilla }}{{cbignore}} On 25 April 2019, it was announced that the Countess, along with her husband and her brother-in-law, the Duke of York, have each been appointed vice president of the annual Royal Windsor Horse Show.{{cite web|url=https://www.shropshirestar.com/news/uk-news/2019/04/25/andrew-edward-and-sophie-take-new-roles-at-royal-windsor-horse-show/|title=Andrew, Edward and Sophie take new roles at Royal Windsor Horse Show|date=25 April 2019|publisher=shropshirestar.com|access-date=25 April 2019|archive-date=25 April 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190425170614/https://www.shropshirestar.com/news/uk-news/2019/04/25/andrew-edward-and-sophie-take-new-roles-at-royal-windsor-horse-show/|url-status=live}} In May 2019, she took over the patronage of the Chartered Management Institute from Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.{{cite web|url=https://www.managers.org.uk/about-us/media-centre/cmi-press-releases/patronage-handover-of-the-chartered-management-institute|title=HRH The Duke of Edinburgh hands over Patronage of the Chartered Management Institute to HRH The Countess of Wessex|publisher=Chartered Management Institute|access-date=15 May 2019|archive-date=1 March 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200301003700/https://www.managers.org.uk/about-us/media-centre/cmi-press-releases/patronage-handover-of-the-chartered-management-institute|url-status=live}}

File:HRH The Countess of Wessex in Washington - 52549064661 (cropped).jpg in Washington, D.C.]]

In April 2020, the Countess helped Rhubarb, a catering company, in preparing and delivering food to NHS staff amidst the coronavirus pandemic, an initiative organised by Ian Wace.{{cite web|url=https://www.hellomagazine.com/royalty/2020042688708/sophie-wessex-volunteering-making-food-nhs-workers/|title=The Countess of Wessex secretly volunteering to make food for NHS staff – details|magazine=Hello!|first=Andrea|last=Caamano|date=26 April 2020|access-date=27 April 2020|archive-date=2 June 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200602162547/https://www.hellomagazine.com/royalty/2020042688708/sophie-wessex-volunteering-making-food-nhs-workers/|url-status=live}} Sophie has also volunteered at local food banks, including the Hope Hub and the Lighthouse, in Surrey and delivered parcels to the homeless during the pandemic.{{cite web |last1=Perry |first1=Simon |title=Why Sophie Wessex Is the Royal Family's Secret Weapon amid Coronavirus |url=https://people.com/royals/sophie-wessex-is-royal-familys-behind-the-scenes-volunteer-amid-coronavirus-pandemic-shes-involved-in-everything-so-nurses-can-eat/ |website=People |date=18 June 2020 |access-date=23 November 2020 |archive-date=6 February 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210206105040/https://people.com/royals/sophie-wessex-is-royal-familys-behind-the-scenes-volunteer-amid-coronavirus-pandemic-shes-involved-in-everything-so-nurses-can-eat/ |url-status=live }} In September 2020, Sophie, alongside her husband and children, participated in the Great British Beach Clean at Southsea Beach in support of the Marine Conservation Society.{{cite web |last1=Rice |first1=Francesca |title=The Countess of Wessex looks cool and casual in jeans to litter-pick at the beach with her famil |url=https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/uk/news/a34092415/countess-of-wessex-jeans-beach/ |website=Good Housekeeping |date=21 September 2020 |access-date=16 November 2020 |archive-date=1 December 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201201194044/https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/uk/news/a34092415/countess-of-wessex-jeans-beach/ |url-status=live }}{{cite web |title=Prince Edward and family spend sunny weekend on beach clean |url=https://www.tatler.com/article/prince-edward-countess-of-wessex-lady-louise-windsor-james-viscount-severn-southsea-beach-great-british-beach-clean |website=Tatler |date=21 September 2020 |access-date=16 November 2020 |archive-date=22 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201122085022/https://www.tatler.com/article/prince-edward-countess-of-wessex-lady-louise-windsor-james-viscount-severn-southsea-beach-great-british-beach-clean |url-status=live }}

In February 2021, as grand president of St John Ambulance, the Countess started working as a care volunteer at an NHS vaccination centre.{{cite web|url=https://news.sky.com/story/covid-19-queen-urges-people-unsure-about-coronavirus-jab-to-get-vaccinated-12229060|title=COVID-19: 'Think about other people': Queen speaks out on vaccine hesitancy|work=Sky News|first=Rhiannon|last=Mills|date=26 February 2021|access-date=28 February 2021|archive-date=28 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210228085320/https://news.sky.com/story/covid-19-queen-urges-people-unsure-about-coronavirus-jab-to-get-vaccinated-12229060|url-status=live}} In May 2021, Sophie become royal patron of Wellbeing of Women, a charity focused on all areas of women's reproductive health across a woman's life course, from menstrual health to menopause.{{cite web|url=https://www.wellbeingofwomen.org.uk/news/countess-of-wessex-royal-patron|title=Her Royal Highness The Countess of Wessex becomes Royal Patron|publisher=wellbeingofwomen.org.uk|access-date=21 May 2021|archive-date=24 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210524100132/https://www.wellbeingofwomen.org.uk/news/countess-of-wessex-royal-patron|url-status=live}} A patron of this charity, she later discussed her own struggles with menopause and how it affected her memory.{{cite web|url=https://www.hellomagazine.com/healthandbeauty/health-and-fitness/20210916121864/sophie-wessex-countess-of-wessex-menopause-mental-health/|title=Sophie Wessex confesses struggles with memory loss|work=Hello!|first=Bridie|last=Wilkins|date=16 September 2021|access-date=16 September 2021|archive-date=16 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210916223241/https://www.hellomagazine.com/healthandbeauty/health-and-fitness/20210916121864/sophie-wessex-countess-of-wessex-menopause-mental-health/|url-status=live}} In July 2021, Princess Alexandra handed over the patronage of The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association to Sophie.{{cite web|url=http://www.hellomagazine.com/royalty/20210708117056/sophie-wessex-takes-over-princess-alexandra-royal-patronage/%3Fviewas%3Damp|title=Countess of Wessex takes over incredible new role from the Queen's cousin|publisher=hellomagazine.com|access-date=8 July 2021|archive-date=25 February 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240225122229/https://www.hellomagazine.com/royalty/20210708117056/sophie-wessex-takes-over-princess-alexandra-royal-patronage/|url-status=live}} In December 2022, Sophie was honoured at the Georgetown Institute for Women, Peace and Security, where she received the Hillary Rodham Clinton Award for her work concerning sexual violence in war zones.{{cite web|url=https://people.com/royals/sophie-countess-wessex-appears-georgetown-university-hillary-clinton-award/|title=Sophie, Countess of Wessex Appears at Georgetown University to Receive Award from Hillary Clinton|work=People|first=Stephanie|last=Petit|date=5 December 2022|access-date=6 December 2022|archive-date=6 December 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221206023927/https://people.com/royals/sophie-countess-wessex-appears-georgetown-university-hillary-clinton-award/|url-status=live}} In February 2025, she became patron of the Mothers' Union, following in the footsteps of Queen Victoria, Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother, and Queen Elizabeth II.{{cite news|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/royal-family/2025/02/27/duchess-edinburgh-becomes-charity-patron/|title=Duchess of Edinburgh becomes patron of charity where late Queen railed against divorce|work=The Telegraph|first=Victoria|last=Ward|date=27 February 2025|access-date=27 February 2025}}

Public image and style

At the start of her relationship with Prince Edward, Sophie was referred to as "the girl next door", and noted for her successful career and ordinary background.{{cite news |last1=Kelly |first1=Guy |title=Why Meghan should follow Sophie, the Countess of Wessex – the outsider who quietly became the Queen's favourite |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/women/life/meghan-should-follow-sophie-countess-wessex-an-outsider-quietly/ |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220112/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/women/life/meghan-should-follow-sophie-countess-wessex-an-outsider-quietly/ |archive-date=12 January 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live |website=The Telegraph|date=2 August 2018 }}{{cbignore}} In the early years of her marriage, Sophie faced public scrutiny for her business interests, and was often compared to the late Diana, Princess of Wales, who had died two years earlier.{{cite news |last1=Hinsliff |first1=Gaby |last2=Wazir |first2=Burhan |title=Word by word, Sophie digs herself deeper into trouble |url=https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2001/apr/08/uk.news |access-date=23 November 2020 |work=The Guardian |date=8 April 2001 |archive-date=18 January 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170118044322/https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2001/apr/08/uk.news |url-status=live }}{{cite news |last1=Hall |first1=Sarah |title=Sophie stresses her differences from Diana |url=https://www.theguardian.com/uk/1999/jun/14/sarahhall |access-date=23 November 2020 |work=The Guardian |date=13 June 1999 |archive-date=1 July 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210701065510/https://www.theguardian.com/uk/1999/jun/14/sarahhall |url-status=live }}{{cite news |last1=Summerskill |first1=Ben |title=Edward and Sophie go on royal duties 'strike' |url=https://www.theguardian.com/uk/2001/aug/19/news.monarchy |access-date=23 November 2020 |work=The Guardian |date=19 August 2001 |archive-date=23 May 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210523203142/https://www.theguardian.com/uk/2001/aug/19/news.monarchy |url-status=live }} On her transition to becoming a full-time royal, she later stated: "Certainly it took me a while to find my feet. The frustration was I had to reduce my expectations of what I could actually do. I couldn't turn up at a charity and go, right, I think you should be doing this, because that's what I was used to doing in my working life. I had to take a really big step back and go, OK, they want you to be the icing on the cake, the person to come in to thank their volunteers and funders, not necessarily to tell them how to run their communications plan."{{cite web |title=How Sophie, Countess of Wessex moved from being a career PR girl to a devoted Royal stalwart |url=https://www.tatler.com/article/sophie-countess-of-wessex-interview-sunday-times-magazine |website=Tatler |date=8 June 2020 |access-date=24 November 2020 |archive-date=21 October 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201021220442/https://www.tatler.com/article/sophie-countess-of-wessex-interview-sunday-times-magazine |url-status=live }}

Sophie has since been cited as an under-the-radar "stabilizing influence" and a "safe pair of hands". She has been said to have a low-key approach to royal engagements, and often drives herself to and from events.{{cite web |last1=Murphy |first1=Victoria |title=Sophie, Countess of Wessex, Is the Royal Family's Secret Weapon |url=https://www.townandcountrymag.com/society/tradition/a32006526/sophie-countess-of-wessex-royal-family-mission/ |website=Town and Country |date=5 April 2020 |access-date=23 November 2020 |archive-date=28 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201128011203/https://www.townandcountrymag.com/society/tradition/a32006526/sophie-countess-of-wessex-royal-family-mission/ |url-status=live }} Amanda Pullinger stated to Town and Country, "She actually presents herself as an ordinary person and I think that is increasingly what the royal family needs to do."{{cite news |last1=Miller |first1=Frederika |title=Sophie Wessex nickname: How dedicated royal earned this surprising nickname |url=https://www.express.co.uk/news/royal/1284136/sophie-wessex-news-nickname-queen-elizabeth-ii-royal-family |access-date=14 October 2020 |work=Daily Express |date=20 May 2020 |archive-date=19 October 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201019191739/https://www.express.co.uk/news/royal/1284136/sophie-wessex-news-nickname-queen-elizabeth-ii-royal-family |url-status=live }} She has also been noted for her long-term work on "gritty" subject matters such as gender-based violence in conflict, and trips to "difficult areas", such as South Sudan and Sierra Leone.{{cite web |title=Can Sophie Wessex reignite the royal flame? |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/national/programmes/sunday/audio/2018755591/can-sophie-wessex-reignite-the-royal-flame |website=Radio NZ |date=19 July 2020 |access-date=23 November 2020 |archive-date=15 January 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210115173437/https://www.rnz.co.nz/national/programmes/sunday/audio/2018755591/can-sophie-wessex-reignite-the-royal-flame |url-status=live }} The Countess's engagements gained significant attention from the public post-Megxit, with her charity work and style choices receiving increased commentary and analysis.{{cite magazine |last1=Vanderhoof |first1=Erin |title=Countess Sophie's Trip to the Pub Suggests She'll Be Staying in the Spotlight |url=https://www.vanityfair.com/style/2020/07/countess-sophie-pub-trip-uk-lockdown |magazine=Vanity Fair |access-date=23 November 2020 |archive-date=25 October 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201025055840/https://www.vanityfair.com/style/2020/07/countess-sophie-pub-trip-uk-lockdown |url-status=live }}{{cite news |last1=McBride |first1=Caitline |title=Sophie of Wessex: who is Queen Elizabeth's 'favourite' royal filling Harry and Meghan's shoes? |url=https://www.independent.ie/style/celebrity/celebrity-features/sophie-of-wessex-who-is-queen-elizabeths-favourite-royal-filling-harry-and-meghans-shoes-38888284.html |access-date=23 November 2020 |publisher=Irish Independent |date=26 January 2020 |archive-date=27 January 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200127140612/https://www.independent.ie/style/celebrity/celebrity-features/sophie-of-wessex-who-is-queen-elizabeths-favourite-royal-filling-harry-and-meghans-shoes-38888284.html |url-status=live }} Writer Ingrid Seward states that Sophie "is not a self-publicist....She looks good, without being over-the-top, and she's not craving celebrity. You often wouldn't know she had carried out all those engagements."{{cite web |first=Georgia |last=Farquharson |title=Sophie Countess of Wessex went from a scandalous past to being a 'royal key worker' – but how could she help Meghan? |url=https://www.goodtoknow.co.uk/royal-news/meghan-markle-sophie-wessex-554698 |website=GoodtoKnow |date=15 August 2020 |access-date=23 November 2020 |archive-date=29 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201129113352/https://www.goodtoknow.co.uk/royal-news/meghan-markle-sophie-wessex-554698 |url-status=live }}

Sophie was not initially prominent for her fashion, but eventually began to develop her own style and has worn outfits by many notable designers.{{cite news|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/fashion/people/sophie-countess-wessex-style-hits-best-fashion-looks/ |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220112/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/fashion/people/sophie-countess-wessex-style-hits-best-fashion-looks/ |archive-date=12 January 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live|title=As Sophie, Countess of Wessex turns 53, look back at her most stylish looks|newspaper=The Telegraph|date=20 January 2018|access-date=12 March 2018}}{{cbignore}} She has exclusively worn Jane Taylor millinery designs since 2009 on numerous occasions.{{cite web|url=http://www.janetaylorlondon.com/about-jane-taylor|title=About Jane Taylor|publisher=janetaylorlondon.com|access-date=10 May 2018|archive-date=10 May 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180510190056/http://www.janetaylorlondon.com/about-jane-taylor|url-status=live}} In a Marie Claire interview, Taylor described her first royal commission: "My first royal client was the Countess of Wessex, and it was quite nerve-racking. But she wears such lovely clothes and she always looks so fabulous, so it's quite easy to design for her. Since she came to see me, she's never worn any other milliner's hats, which is a big compliment. I was really excited, honored, and slightly nervous."{{cite web|url=https://www.marieclaire.com/fashion/news/a19751/jane-taylor-interview/|title=Royal Style for Real Girls: Tips from Kate Middleton's Hat Maker Jane Taylor|publisher=marieclaire.com|access-date=13 April 2016|archive-date=14 April 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160414111004/http://www.marieclaire.com/fashion/news/a19751/jane-taylor-interview/|url-status=live}} Alongside the Princess of Wales and the Duchess of Sussex, Sophie has been named one of the most stylish members of the royal family.{{cite web|url=https://ca.hellomagazine.com/fashion/02018011941863/sophie-countess-wessex-stylish-moments/1/|title=Sophie, Countess of Wessex's most stylish moments|publisher=Hello!|date=19 January 2018|access-date=12 March 2018|archive-date=13 March 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180313093630/https://ca.hellomagazine.com/fashion/02018011941863/sophie-countess-wessex-stylish-moments/1/|url-status=live}} Sophie is particularly known for wearing different combinations of hats and coats, and favours silk dresses and frocks. Describing her style in an interview by Sunday Express Sophie said: "It's about my charities, but I recognize that I'm on display. [...] When you walk into a room, yes, people are going to talk about what you're doing there, but they're also going to want to know what you're wearing".{{cite web|url=https://www.glamour.com/story/sophie-countess-of-wessex-style|title=Sophie, Countess of Wessex, Talks About the Real Fashion Pressures of Being a Royal|publisher=Glamour|first=Leah Melby|last=Clinton|date=20 October 2015|access-date=12 March 2018|archive-date=13 March 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180313092903/https://www.glamour.com/story/sophie-countess-of-wessex-style|url-status=live}} She also revealed that she has never had a stylist of her own and that she makes her fashion choices herself.{{cite magazine|url=http://people.com/royals/why-sophie-countess-of-wessex-skips-the-stylist/|title=Why Sophie, Countess of Wessex, Skips the Stylist: 'She Does It All Herself'|magazine=People|first=Monique|last=Jessen|date=6 November 2015|access-date=12 March 2018|archive-date=13 March 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180313092418/http://people.com/royals/why-sophie-countess-of-wessex-skips-the-stylist/|url-status=live}} In 2015, the Countess was named on Vanity Fair{{'}}s Best Dressed List.{{cite news|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/theroyalfamily/11938857/Sophie-Countess-of-Wessex-tells-how-she-caved-into-fashion.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220112/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/theroyalfamily/11938857/Sophie-Countess-of-Wessex-tells-how-she-caved-into-fashion.html |archive-date=12 January 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live|title=Sophie, Countess of Wessex tells how she 'caved into fashion'|newspaper=The Telegraph|first=Victoria|last=Ward|date=18 October 2015|access-date=12 March 2018}}{{cbignore}} Together with the then-Duchess of Cambridge, Sophie hosted the Commonwealth Fashion Exchange reception at Buckingham Palace during the 2018 London Fashion Week.{{cite magazine|url=http://people.com/royals/kate-middleton-steps-out-in-black-and-white-for-fashion-event-amid-bafta-dress-code-backlash/|title=Kate Middleton Steps Out in Black-and-White for Fashion Event Amid BAFTA Dress Code Backlash|magazine=People|first=Erin|last=Hill|date=19 February 2018|access-date=12 March 2018|archive-date=13 March 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180313092421/http://people.com/royals/kate-middleton-steps-out-in-black-and-white-for-fashion-event-amid-bafta-dress-code-backlash/|url-status=live}}

Privacy and the media

=Violation of privacy=

In May 1999, less than a month before her wedding, The Sun published a photo of a topless Sophie with her Capital Radio colleague Chris Tarrant, which was taken during a business trip to Spain in 1988.{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/353644.stm|title=Sun apologises in royal picture row|publisher=BBC|date=26 May 1999|access-date=5 February 2017|archive-date=6 February 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170206025008/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/353644.stm|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/353896.stm|title=Sun says 'sorry, Sophie'|publisher=BBC|date=27 May 1999|access-date=5 February 2017|archive-date=6 February 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170206023903/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/353896.stm|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/uk/1999/may/26/1|title=Sun apologises to 'devastated' Sophie Rhys-Jones|newspaper=The Guardian|date=26 May 1999|access-date=5 February 2017|archive-date=18 January 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170118045740/https://www.theguardian.com/uk/1999/may/26/1|url-status=live}} Buckingham Palace immediately issued a statement saying, "This morning's story in The Sun is a gross invasion of privacy and cannot be regarded as in the public interest. It has caused considerable distress." Prime Minister Tony Blair also condemned the publication of the photograph. The Palace made an official complaint to the Press Complaints Commission (PCC). According to Sophie's business partner the incident had left her "distressed", and she was reportedly "devastated" and felt "she was 'letting the side down' before her wedding".{{cite news|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/theroyalfamily/9545281/Duchess-of-Cambridge-receives-support-from-Countess-of-Wessex-in-topless-pictures-row.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220112/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/theroyalfamily/9545281/Duchess-of-Cambridge-receives-support-from-Countess-of-Wessex-in-topless-pictures-row.html |archive-date=12 January 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live|title=Duchess of Cambridge receives support from Countess of Wessex in topless pictures row|newspaper=The Telegraph|date=16 September 2012|access-date=5 February 2017|first=Richard|last=Eden}}{{cbignore}} Tarrant later said, "There was never, ever the slightest hint of romance between Sophie and myself, let alone these snidey insinuations." Following its publication, the newspaper issued a statement and apologised to Rhys-Jones and the next issue came out with the headline "Sorry, Sophie". It also said that it would again apologise to Sophie in a letter and donate all sale proceeds of the issue to her charities.{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/359041.stm|title=Tabloid rapped over topless Sophie photo|publisher=BBC|date=2 June 1999|access-date=5 February 2017|archive-date=6 February 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170206022714/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/359041.stm|url-status=live}} The photo was sold to the tabloid by Kara Noble, a former friend and colleague of Sophie. Noble later apologised in the following months saying, "I just want to say sorry to everyone who was involved."{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/682763.stm|title=Noble sorry for Sophie snap|publisher=BBC|date=19 March 2000|access-date=5 February 2017|archive-date=6 February 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170206024618/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/682763.stm|url-status=live}} Both she and the newspaper faced criticism from the public, and Noble was fired from her job at Heart 106.2 FM. The couple later decided not to make a formal complaint.

In 2011, close associates of Jonathan Rees, a private investigator connected to the News International phone hacking scandal, stated that he had penetrated Sophie and Edward's bank accounts and sold details about them to the Sunday Mirror.{{cite news|last=Davies|first=Nick|title=Phone-hacking scandal widens to include Kate Middleton and Tony Blair|url=https://www.theguardian.com/uk/2011/jun/08/phone-hacking-kate-middleton-tony-blair|access-date=19 December 2022|newspaper=The Guardian|date=8 June 2011|archive-date=13 August 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230813141238/https://www.theguardian.com/uk/2011/jun/08/phone-hacking-kate-middleton-tony-blair|url-status=live}}

=Media sting=

In April 2001, Sophie appeared in the media after she was misled in a meeting at the Dorchester by a News of the World reporter posing as an Arab sheikh, Mazher Mahmood,{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/1255645.stm|title=Palace denies reports of Sophie insults|work=BBC|date=2 April 2001|access-date=7 January 2017|archive-date=15 January 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170115215845/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/1255645.stm|url-status=live}}{{Cite news| url=https://www.independent.co.uk/news/media/the-fake-sheikh-and-his-greatest-hits-310570.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220524/https://www.independent.co.uk/news/media/the-fake-sheikh-and-his-greatest-hits-310570.html |archive-date=24 May 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live | work=The Independent | location=London | title=The fake sheikh and his greatest hits | date=6 September 2005 | access-date=7 January 2017}} who was later exposed for perjury in Southwark Crown Court.{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-28403821|title=Tulisa Contostavlos drugs trial collapses|publisher=BBC|date=21 July 2014|access-date=2 January 2016|archive-date=22 July 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140722193831/http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-28403821|url-status=live}} It was claimed by the newspapers that during their "secretly taped" conversation, the Countess had insulted the royal family and politicians, calling the Queen "old dear" and criticising the leadership of prime ministers John Major and Tony Blair and Chancellor of the Exchequer Gordon Brown.{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2001/apr/08/uk.news|title=Word by word, Sophie digs herself deeper into trouble|newspaper=The Guardian|date=8 April 2001|access-date=12 January 2017|archive-date=18 January 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170118044322/https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2001/apr/08/uk.news|url-status=live}} She also reportedly commented on Prince Charles's relationship with his then-partner Camilla, arguing that a marriage would not be possible as long as the Queen Mother was alive. However, despite some initial reports, the paper acquitted her of referring to Cherie Blair as "absolutely horrid" and mocking Leader of the Opposition William Hague's appearance.{{cite news|url=https://www.irishtimes.com/news/sophie-quits-pr-firm-amid-new-tape-revelations-1.299668|title=Sophie quits PR firm amid new tape revelations|newspaper=The Irish Times|first=Frank|last=Millar|date=9 April 2001|access-date=7 April 2022|archive-date=20 September 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220920172650/https://www.irishtimes.com/news/sophie-quits-pr-firm-amid-new-tape-revelations-1.299668|url-status=live}} Murray Harkin, Sophie's business partner who was also present at the meeting, was recorded discussing his sex life and cocaine use and boasting about Sophie's abilities in securing celebrities for various events. Tabloid newspapers claimed the Countess had sent apology letters to Blair, Hague and Prince Charles.

Buckingham Palace denied the accuracy of the reports, saying: "The Countess of Wessex, who is trying to pursue her own career, is obviously vulnerable to set-ups such as this." The Palace released a statement saying the reported comments were "selective, distorted and in several cases, flatly untrue". The Palace officials stated that Sophie had not insulted the Queen, the Queen Mother, or the politicians, while according to the Mail on Sunday four reliable sources had confirmed these reports. The News of the World attributed the negative reactions to the jealousy of the rival media, as the outlet had previously conducted an interview with Sophie in which she addressed the rumours about her difficulties in marriage and discussed her husband's sexuality. Sophie had reportedly agreed to the intimate interview on the condition that the newspaper would not publish transcript of the tapes.{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/1266468.stm|title=Explosive headlines for Sophie|work=BBC News|date=8 April 2001|access-date=5 December 2022|archive-date=26 December 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221226054249/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/1266468.stm|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/programmes/bh/1266723.stm|title=Sophie scandal continues|work=BBC|date=8 April 2001|access-date=5 December 2022|archive-date=6 December 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221206014041/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/programmes/bh/1266723.stm|url-status=live}} In a separate statement Sophie said she was "distressed by the carrying out of an entrapment operation" on her, but also regretted her "own misjudgment in succumbing to that subterfuge". Subsequently, in 2002, both the Earl and Countess announced that they would quit their business interests in order to focus on activities and official engagements on behalf of the royal family and aid the Queen in her Golden Jubilee year.{{cite news | url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/1850847.stm | work=BBC News | title=Sophie and Edward quit business roles | date=2 March 2002 | access-date=31 December 2011 | archive-date=23 December 2002 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20021223032339/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/1850847.stm | url-status=live }}

=Jewellery gifts=

The Countess of Wessex was criticised for accepting two sets of jewels from the royal family of Bahrain during an official day-long{{cite news | author=Staff writer | title=Countess of Wessex's Bahrain jewel gift criticised | date=7 January 2012 | publisher=BBC | url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-16452634 | access-date=9 January 2012 | authorlink=Staff writer | archive-date=7 January 2012 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120107192337/http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-16452634 | url-status=live }} visit to the country in December 2011, as she and her husband returned to the UK from a trip to Afghanistan. She was given one set by Bahrain's king and a second set by the country's prime minister, Sheikh Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa. Her husband, the Earl, received a pen and a watch as well as a silk rug from the Crown Prince of Bahrain, Sheikh Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, who also gave Sophie a silver and pearl cup. The value of the jewellery has not been estimated and its precise contents were not disclosed.{{cite news | first=Andy | last=Bloxham | title=Countess of Wessex criticised for accepting jewels from Bahrain | date=6 January 2012 | work=The Telegraph | url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/theroyalfamily/8999280/Countess-of-Wessex-criticised-for-accepting-jewels-from-Bahrain.html | access-date=9 January 2012 | url-access=subscription | location=London | archive-date=9 January 2012 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120109033216/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/theroyalfamily/8999280/Countess-of-Wessex-criticised-for-accepting-jewels-from-Bahrain.html | url-status=live }} Given concern about human rights abuses in Bahrain, this gift attracted controversy, with calls for the jewels to be sold, and the proceeds used for the benefit of the Bahraini people.{{cite news| url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/theroyalfamily/8999872/How-a-routine-royal-visit-spelt-trouble-for-the-Countess-of-Wessex.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220112/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/theroyalfamily/8999872/How-a-routine-royal-visit-spelt-trouble-for-the-Countess-of-Wessex.html |archive-date=12 January 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live | location=London | work=The Telegraph | first=Patrick | last=Sawer | title=How a routine royal visit spelt trouble for the Countess of Wessex | date=8 January 2012}}{{cbignore}}

Critics said the Countess should sell the gems and give the proceeds to political protesters in Bahrain. Denis MacShane, then a Labour Member of Parliament (MP) and previously a Foreign Office minister, said: "Given the appalling suffering and repression of the Bahraini people, it would be a fitting gesture for the Countess of Wessex to auction these trinkets and distribute the proceeds to the victims of the regime."

Royal family guidelines and procedures relating to gifts, published by the government in 2003, state that "before accepting any gift, careful consideration should always be given, wherever practicable, to the donor, the reason for and occasion of the gift and the nature of the gift itself ... Equally, before declining the offer of a gift, careful consideration should be given to any offence that might be caused by such action."

Titles, styles, honours and arms

=Titles and styles=

Sophie was styled as "Her Royal Highness The Countess of Wessex" from her marriage in 1999 to 2023. On 10 March 2019, her husband was created Earl of Forfar, according her the title by courtesy of Countess of Forfar.{{cite web|url=https://www.royal.uk/title-earl-wessex|title=Title for the Earl of Wessex|date=10 March 2019|publisher=Royal.uk|access-date=10 March 2019|archive-date=9 September 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220909170952/https://www.royal.uk/new-title-earl-wessex|url-status=dead}} She was at times referred to as the Countess of Wessex and Forfar, such as at the funerals of her father-in-law and mother-in-law.{{cite web |url=https://www.royal.uk/funeral-duke-edinburgh-0 |title=The Funeral of The Duke of Edinburgh |date=4 December 2017 |publisher=royal.uk |access-date=11 February 2022 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220202123217/https://www.royal.uk/funeral-duke-edinburgh-0 |archive-date=2 February 2022}}{{cite web|url=https://www.royal.uk/sites/default/files/media/state_funeral_of_her_majesty_queen_elizabeth.pdf|title=Order of Service for The State Funeral of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II|work=The Royal Family|date=19 September 2022|access-date=5 October 2022|archive-date=19 September 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220919084548/https://www.royal.uk/sites/default/files/media/state_funeral_of_her_majesty_queen_elizabeth.pdf|url-status=live}} Since 10 March 2023, when her husband was created Duke of Edinburgh (for life), she has been known as "Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Edinburgh".{{cite web|url=https://www.royal.uk/dukedom-edinburgh|title=The King confers The Dukedom of Edinburgh upon The Prince Edward|work=The Royal Family|date=10 March 2023|accessdate=10 March 2023|archive-date=10 March 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230310120219/https://www.royal.uk/dukedom-edinburgh|url-status=dead}}

=Honours=

{{See also|List of honours of the British royal family by country}}

45px 2002: Recipient of the Queen Elizabeth II Golden Jubilee Medal
45px 2004: Recipient of the Royal Family Order of Elizabeth II{{cite web|url=http://www.royal.gov.uk/ThecurrentRoyalFamily/TheCountessofWessex/Honoursandappointments.aspx |title=Honours and appointments: The Countess of Wessex |publisher=Royal Household |access-date=1 January 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140102194633/http://www.royal.gov.uk/ThecurrentRoyalFamily/TheCountessofWessex/Honoursandappointments.aspx |archive-date=2 January 2014 }}
45px 2005: Recipient of the Commemorative Medal for the Centennial of Saskatchewan{{cite press release| title=The Earl and Countess of Wessex Receive Centennial Medal| publisher=Government of Saskatchewan| date=7 June 2005| url=http://www.gov.sk.ca/news?newsId=6f57e213-b361-4db4-99d0-08daa71a484e| access-date=27 October 2008| url-status=dead| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110611004032/http://www.gov.sk.ca/news?newsId=6f57e213-b361-4db4-99d0-08daa71a484e| archive-date=11 June 2011| df=dmy-all}}
45px 2010: Dame Grand Cross of the Royal Victorian Order (GCVO){{Cite press release|title=The Countess of Wessex appointed to the Royal Victorian Order |publisher=Queen's Printer |date=20 January 2010 |url=http://www.royal.gov.uk/LatestNewsandDiary/Pressreleases/2010/TheCountessofWessexappointedtotheRoyalVictorianOrd.aspx |access-date=20 January 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100124082039/http://www.royal.gov.uk/LatestNewsandDiary/Pressreleases/2010/TheCountessofWessexappointedtotheRoyalVictorianOrd.aspx |archive-date=24 January 2010 }}
45px 2012: Recipient of the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal
45px 2016: Recipient of the Canadian Forces' Decoration (CD)
45px 2017: Recipient of the Service Medal of the Order of St John{{cite tweet|user=RoyalFamily|author=The Royal Family|number=844221216449794048|date=21 March 2017|title=The Countess of Wessex, as Grand President of @stjohnambulance has been awarded a Long Service Medal at the National Presidents' Conference.}}
45px 2021: Recipient of the Service Medal of the Order of St John{{cite tweet|user=RoyalFamily|author=The Royal Family|number=1438529575592542209|date=16 September 2021|title=Yesterday The Countess of Wessex, Grand President of @StJohnAmbulance, was presented with the First Bar to the Service Medal, marking HRH's 15 years of service to the Order.}} (with bar)
45px 2022: Recipient of the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal{{cite web|url=https://www.homesandantiques.com/antiques/royal-family-medals|title=What medals are the royal family wearing?|work=Homes & Antiques|first=Emma|last=Longstaff|date=27 April 2023|access-date=19 January 2024|archive-date=17 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240117212517/https://www.homesandantiques.com/antiques/royal-family-medals|url-status=live}}{{unreliable source|date=January 2024}}
45px 2022: Dame Grand Cross of the Most Venerable Order of Saint John (GCStJ){{London Gazette |issue=63692 |date=9 May 2022|page=8838}}
2005–2022: Dame of Justice of the Most Venerable Order of Saint John (DStJ){{London Gazette |issue=57625 |date=27 April 2005|page=5488}}
45px 2023: Recipient of the King Charles III Coronation Medal{{cite web|url=https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/64cb653b2322ce000dcd23b7/Coronation_Medal_eligibility_criteria.docx|title=Honours, Decorations and Medals|website=gov.uk|access-date=19 January 2024|archive-date=19 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240119155807/https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/64cb653b2322ce000dcd23b7/Coronation_Medal_eligibility_criteria.docx|url-status=live}}{{original research inline|date=January 2024}}
45px 2024: Recipient of the Royal Family Order of Charles III{{Cite tweet |author=Richard Palmer |user=RoyalReporter |number=1864047242841030802 |title= Both The Duchess of Edinburgh and The Princess Royal are wearing the Royal Family Order of King Charles III.}}

==Foreign==

{{flagicon|Mexico}} 9 September 2015: Sash of the Mexican Order of the Aztec Eagle{{cite web|url=https://embamex.sre.gob.mx/reinounido/index.php/en/ver-comunicados/761-hrh-the-prince-of-wales-was-awarded-with-the-mexican-order-of-the-aztec-eagle|title=TRH THE PRINCE OF WALES AND THE DUCHESS OF CORNWALL AWARDED WITH THE MEXICAN ORDER OF THE AZTEC EAGLE|publisher=Official website of the Mexican Embassy in the United Kingdom|access-date=11 April 2019|archive-date=11 April 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190411055728/https://embamex.sre.gob.mx/reinounido/index.php/en/ver-comunicados/761-hrh-the-prince-of-wales-was-awarded-with-the-mexican-order-of-the-aztec-eagle|url-status=live}}
{{flagicon|Brunei}} 2017: Recipient of the Sultan of Brunei Golden Jubilee Medal{{cite tweet|user=RoyalFamily|author=The Royal Family|number=915958265103732736|date=5 October 2017|title=The Earl and Countess of Wessex are in Brunei to attend The Sultan of Brunei's Golden Jubilee celebrations.}}
{{flagicon|Sweden}}19 June 2010: Recipient of the Wedding of Crown Princess Victoria and Prince Daniel Medal{{cite web|url=https://www.ne.se/uppslagsverk/encyklopedi/l%c3%a5ng/kronprinsessans-och-herr-daniel-westlings-br%c3%b6llopsminnesmedalj|title='The Crown Princess and Mr. Daniel Westling's wedding commemorative medal'}}

==Honorary military appointments==

File:Sophie, Countess of Wessex, shakes hands with Brig Gen Thomas Deale at Kandahar Airfield.jpg combat dress on a visit to Kandahar in 2011]]

;{{Flagicon|CAN}} Canada

{{Flagicon|CAN|army}} 2004: Colonel-in-Chief of the Lincoln and Welland Regiment;{{cite web|url=http://sevenyearproject.com/GCC-website/countess-of-wessex.htm|title=Garrison Community Council – Upcoming Events|access-date=23 December 2013|archive-date=24 December 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131224102733/http://sevenyearproject.com/GCC-website/countess-of-wessex.htm|url-status=live}}
{{Flagicon|CAN|army}} 2005: Colonel-in-Chief of the South Alberta Light Horse

;{{Flagicon|UK}} United Kingdom

{{Flagicon|UK|army}} 2003–2024: Colonel-in-Chief of the Queen Alexandra's Royal Army Nursing Corps{{London Gazette |issue=57032 |date=19 August 2003 |page=10318 |supp=y |nolink=yes }}
{{Flagicon|UK|army}} 2005: Colonel-in-Chief of the Royal Corps of Army Music
{{Flagicon|UK|naval}} 2006: Lady Sponsor of HMS Daring
{{Flagicon|UK|army}} 2007: Royal Colonel of the 5th Battalion The Rifles
{{Flagicon|UK|air force}} 2008: Honorary Air Commodore Royal Air Force Wittering
{{Flagicon|UK|army}} 2022: Colonel-in-Chief of the Corps of Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers{{cite web|url=https://www.army.mod.uk/news-and-events/news/2022/03/new-reme-colonel-in-chief/|title=Her Royal Highness The Countess of Wessex becomes Colonel-in-Chief of the REME|work=The British Army|date=30 March 2022|access-date=30 March 2022|archive-date=2 April 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220402140915/https://www.army.mod.uk/news-and-events/news/2022/03/new-reme-colonel-in-chief/|url-status=live}}
{{Flagicon|UK|army}} 2023: Colonel-in-Chief of the Royal Irish Regiment{{cite web|url=https://www.royal.uk/news-and-activity/2023-08-11/further-military-appointments-for-members-of-the-royal-family|title=Further Military Appointments for Members of the Royal Family|work=The Royal Family|date=11 August 2023|accessdate=11 August 2023|archive-date=11 August 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230811081733/https://www.royal.uk/news-and-activity/2023-08-11/further-military-appointments-for-members-of-the-royal-family|url-status=live}}
{{Flagicon|UK|army}} 2023: Royal Colonel of the Queen's Own Yeomanry
{{Flagicon|UK|army}} 2024: Deputy Colonel-in-Chief of the Royal Army Medical Service{{cite news|url=https://www.thetimes.com/comment/register/article/court-circular-january-15-2025-f92fvlt9z|title=Court Circular: January 15, 2025|work=The Times|date=16 January 2025|access-date=23 January 2025}}

==Honorific eponyms==

The Duchess of Edinburgh's String Orchestra (formerly the Countess of Wessex's String Orchestra){{Cite Instagram |author=British Army Music |author-link=Royal Corps of Army Music |user=corps_army_music |postid=DFN9N3CuOzM |date=24 January 2025 |title=Renaming of The Countess of Wessex's String Orchestra. |access-date=24 January 2025}}
The Duchess of Edinburgh Cup (formerly the Countess of Wessex Cup), an annual competition which sees regiments and military organisations affiliated with Sophie compete against each other in a series of challenges{{cite web|url=https://www.royal.uk/countess-wessex-cup-st-john-moore-barracks|title=The Countess of Wessex Cup at the St John Moore Barracks|work=The Royal Family|date=22 October 2019|accessdate=8 February 2023|archive-date=8 February 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230208213527/https://www.royal.uk/countess-wessex-cup-st-john-moore-barracks|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://www.raf.mod.uk/our-organisation/stations/raf-wittering/news/raf-wittering-personnel-compete-in-the-duchess-of-edinburgh-cup/|title=RAF Wittering personnel compete in The Duchess of Edinburgh Cup|work=Royal Air Force|date=4 December 2023|access-date=3 October 2024}}
The rose cultivar Rosa 'Countess of Wessex' was named in her honour in 2004.{{cite web|url=https://www.helpmefind.com/gardening/l.php?l=2.40494|title='Countess of Wessex' rose Description|publisher=Help Me Find|access-date=27 November 2020|archive-date=6 December 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201206061854/https://www.helpmefind.com/gardening/l.php?l=2.40494|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://www.classicroses.co.uk/roses/countess-of-wessex-shrub-rose.html|title=The Countess of Wessex (Shrub Rose)|publisher=Peter Beales|access-date=27 November 2020|quote=We were delighted to have named this rose at the suggestion of Bishop Peter Nott, formally of Norwich, who had the honour of officiating at the wedding of The Earl and Countess of Wessex, at St. George's Chapel, Windsor in 1999.|archive-date=5 December 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201205165832/https://www.classicroses.co.uk/roses/countess-of-wessex-shrub-rose.html|url-status=live}}

=Arms=

{{Infobox COA wide

|name = the Duchess of Edinburgh

|image = Coat of Arms of Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh.svg

|image size =

|notes = The Duchess bears the arms of her husband impaled with her father's. Prior to marrying Prince Edward her father Christopher Rhys-Jones had arms redesigned by Sir Peter Gwynn-Jones, Garter King of Arms, based on a 200-year-old family blazon never previously recognised. The new grant of arms included a remainder to Christopher's elder brother Theo Rhys-Jones and issue. About her new family coat of arms, Sophie is quoted saying: "It's wonderful, I'm absolutely thrilled", "It's not modern and different, because it is representative of my family's heritage, so it's in keeping with that."[http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/347718.stm Sophie's new coat] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131031174531/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/347718.stm |date=31 October 2013 }}. BBC News. 19 May 1999. Retrieved 14 November 2010.

|year_adopted = 1999

|coronet = Coronet of a child of the Sovereign.

|escutcheon = Quarterly, 1st and 4th Gules three Lions passant guardant in pale Or armed and langed Azure, 2nd Or a Lion rampant Gules armed and langued Azure within a Double Tressure flory counterflory of the Second, 3rd Azure a Harp Or stringed Argent, the whole differenced with a Label of three Points Argent with the central Point charged with a Tudor Rose (Royal Arms differenced for Prince Edward); impaled with a Shield quarterly Gules and Azure a Lion rampant regardant within an Orle Or (for Rhys-Jones); and, in chief, as an augmentation of honour, the arms of the Order of St John (for GCStJ).

|supporters = Dexter, a Lion rampant gardant Or crowned with the Coronet of the rank of a child of the Sovereign Proper; Sinister, a Wyvern Azure gorged with a Coronet Or composed of Crosses pattées and Fleurs-de-lis a Chain affixed also Or.

|motto = CAS GŴR NI CHÂR Y WLAD A'I MACO
(Welsh: Hateful the man who loves not the country that nurtured him)

|orders = File:HRH the Duchess of Edinburgh GCStJ banner.jpg Surrounding the Shield, the Royal Victorian Order circlet inscribed with its motto: VICTORIA;
augmented in chief by the arms of the Order of St John as a Dame Grand Cross (GCStJ).

|other_elements = GCVO insignia suspended below the Shield (optional).

|symbolism = The Duchess's family arms allude to her family's Welsh heritage and one of her noble ancestors the warrior Elystan Glodrydd, Prince of Ferrig (represented by the lion). Red and blue are the regimental colours of the Royal Fusiliers, in which members of her family have served. The wyvern is a symbol of Wessex, appropriate to the earldom of Wessex (now a subsidiary title).{{Cite web |title=Royal Insights: October 2005: Mailbox |url=http://www.royal.gov.uk/output/Page4491.asp |access-date=17 June 2023 |publisher=The Royal Household|archive-date=22 February 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080222173807/http://www.royal.gov.uk/output/Page4491.asp |url-status=dead }}

|previous_versions = File:Coa_Illustration_Cross_Malte_2.svg File:Arms of Sophie Rhys-Jones.svg Previous versions of her marital arms were depicted superimposed upon the Badge of the Order of St John (when DJStJ) replaced in 2010 by the Royal Victorian Order circlet (as GCVO). Her arms since 2022 represent both her being a Dame Grand Cross of the Royal Victorian Order (by its circlet) and of the Order of St John (with its augmentation of honour in chief).
Prior to her marriage, Sophie Rhys-Jones bore her father's arms on a lozenge.

}}

Authored articles

{{Cite web |last=HRH The Countess of Wessex |date=10 October 2013|title=World Sight Day: Blindness is a matter of life and death |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/theroyalfamily/10367005/World-Sight-Day-Blindness-is-a-matter-of-life-and-death-argues-The-Countess-of-Wessex.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220112/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/theroyalfamily/10367005/World-Sight-Day-Blindness-is-a-matter-of-life-and-death-argues-The-Countess-of-Wessex.html |archive-date=12 January 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live |website=The Telegraph |location=London}}{{cbignore}}
{{Cite web |last=HRH The Countess of Wessex |date=7 March 2019 |title=Why I'm joining the fight to end the silence around women in conflict |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2019/03/07/joining-fight-end-silence-around-women-conflict/ |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220112/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2019/03/07/joining-fight-end-silence-around-women-conflict/ |archive-date=12 January 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live |website=The Telegraph |location=London}}{{cbignore}}
{{Cite web |last=HRH The Countess of Wessex |date=31 October 2020 |title=Women are the unsung heroes of peacebuilding |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2020/10/31/women-unsung-heroes-peacebuilding/ |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220112/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2020/10/31/women-unsung-heroes-peacebuilding/ |archive-date=12 January 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live |website=The Telegraph |location=London}}{{cbignore}}

References

External links

{{Spoken Wikipedia|En-Sophie, Countess of Wessex-article.ogg|date=12 July 2014}}

[https://www.royal.uk/duchess-edinburgh The Duchess of Edinburgh] at the official website of the British royal family
[https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/services/royal-family/members-royal-family/duchess-edinburgh.html The Duchess of Edinburgh] at the website of the Government of Canada
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{{IMDb name|2610797|Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh}}

{{Succession box|title=Ladies
HRH The Duchess of Edinburgh|before=Princess Lilibet of Sussex|after=The Princess Royal|years=}}