Royal family members will now accompany the Queen on public visits

Earlier this week the Queen was admitted to the hospital for an overnight stay. But, while it was confirmed that Her Majesty was only in the hospital for tests and there were no specific medical concerns, the 95-year-old’s busy schedule resulted in rest orders. The Queen then returned to Windsor Castle on Thursday, cancelling a two-day trip to Northern Ireland.

It has been announced that from hereon, the Queen will be accompanied by other royal family members on public visits. The effort has been made to ensure that potential future health problems won’t lead to last-minute cancellations that could disappoint the public, with other family members being able to take over or support the Queen if needed.

According to The Telegraph, the Queen was still resting at home on Saturday and has been performing light duties about Windsor Castle. Doctors and Palace Aides are now awaiting test results and specialist insight before advising the Queen on when she can resume her public duties.

Already the Queen has several upcoming events scheduled, but it is unsure if all will be able to go ahead. However, Her Majesty’s commitments for COP26, including a speech and hosting a reception, is so far still in the cards.

The latest statement released on Thursday by a royal spokesperson announced:

Following medical advice to rest for a few days, The Queen attended hospital on Wednesday afternoon for some preliminary investigations, returning to Windsor Castle at lunchtime today, and remains in good spirits.

Royals already beginning to pick up extra workloads

Since the death of the late Prince Philip in April, royal family members have already been picking up extra duties. The Princess Royal and Earl of Wessex, as well as Prince Charles and Camilla, have all been seen on public duties with the Queen over the last months and will continue to do so in the future.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, the only senior working royals of their generation, have also been stepping up, with Prince William becoming heavily involved in running the Balmoral and Sandringham estates alongside Prince Charles.

Now, as part of the new working model, Her Majesty’s children and grandchildren will play a more integral role in the Queen’s schedule to mitigate any last-minute changes.