When Prince William agreed to become patron of homelessness charity Centrepoint two decades ago, he made his intentions crystal clear.
The organisation's chief executive, Seyi Obakin, revealed that the Prince of Wales stipulated from the outset that he had no interest in being an “ornamental patron” - that is, a figurehead without substance.
Mr Obakin said: "He told me he wanted to get involved, understand what's going on and know how he could help.
"He has been true to his word in every sense."
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The charity boss added that William's active engagement has made a tangible difference.
"Some of the things we have been able to do, we probably would not have done without his patronage," Mr Obakin explained.
William's bond with Centrepoint stretches back to his childhood, when his late mother Diana, Princess of Wales, first brought him to the organisation as a schoolboy.
Following in her footsteps by accepting the patronage, he has demonstrated remarkable dedication to understanding the realities of rough sleeping.
Prince William refused to be 'ornamental patron' of Princess Diana's charity
|GETTY
In 2009, the Prince and Mr Obakin spent a night on the streets together in an unconventional engagement designed to highlight the plight of homeless people.
More recently, William launched his Homewards initiative, which aims to unite the sector around proving that homelessness can become "rare, brief and unrepeated" across the country.
The Prince marked his 20-year milestone at Centrepoint on Tuesday with a celebration featuring cake and creative contributions.
During a speech to staff, volunteers and those who have benefited from the charity's services, William expressed pride in being part of what he called "the Centrepoint family."
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Princess Diana was a previous Patron of the charity
|GETTY
"In 20 years, how much has changed and been achieved by all of you?" he asked those gathered.
"That massive cake signifies the love, generosity and time you all give to helping others, so make sure you take a piece."
Tuesday's visit was William's first to the charity's new headquarters since it relocated over the summer.
During his visit, William met 22-year-old Rukyah, a recipient of a personal development award, along with her six-month-old son Laell.
The Prince of Wales speaks with Centrepoint CEO Seyi Obakin (centre) and Centrepoint Ambassador Lisa Maxwell (right)
|PA
The baby kicked his legs excitedly when the Prince tickled him. "I can see he wants to play, he's like, 'I want to get down,'" William observed. "I know that face."
The Prince also contributed to a "Wall of Hope" mural in the reception area, a collaborative artwork created by young people and artist Lanre Olagoke.
Tasked with painting an orange heart at the centre of the design, he quipped beforehand: "I don't want to ruin your masterpiece."