Prince Harry is preparing for a series of public appearances in the United Kingdom following his return to the country with Meghan and their children, while questions remain over his security arrangements and role within the royal family.
Harry is expected to attend the inaugural Invictus Spirit Awards on Thursday, marking his first major public appearance since the family relocated to Britain. He and Meghan returned to the UK after several years living in California.
The couple’s return has renewed attention on Harry’s publicly funded security. The Royal and VIP Executive Committee, known as RAVEC, is carrying out separate risk assessments for Harry and Meghan following their return as full-time UK residents. Harry’s assessment was initiated in July, while Meghan is undergoing her first such review since the couple stepped back from royal duties in 2020.
Harry previously lost automatic police protection after stepping down as a working royal. He challenged the decision through the courts but ultimately lost his appeal in 2025. His current security arrangements are being reviewed separately from his royal status.
The security issue has become particularly significant as Harry begins attending public events in Britain again. RAVEC has asked the couple to provide information about their schedules and daily routines as part of its assessment.
Their children’s security has also been a consideration. Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet were moved to a different school shortly after beginning at their previous school because of concerns about the journey between the family’s home and the school. A spokesperson said the decision was based on security and transportation concerns rather than any criticism of the school.
At the same time, King Charles has clarified that Harry and Meghan remain non-working members of the royal family. A letter authorised by the King was sent to officials to reaffirm their status as private citizens rather than working representatives of the monarchy.
Despite that clarification, Harry continues to use his Duke of Sussex title and is expected to undertake public engagements connected to his charitable work, including activities linked to the Invictus Games.
Harry’s return has also brought renewed attention to his relationship with other members of the royal family. He has re-established contact with his father, but there has been no indication of a return to formal royal duties or a restoration of his previous working role.
His UK appearances come during a particularly busy period for the royal family, with King Charles and Prince William continuing their own official engagements. Harry and William are scheduled to undertake separate public engagements on the same day, highlighting the different roles they now occupy within public life.
For Harry, the upcoming appearances provide an opportunity to continue his public and charitable work in Britain while his security assessment remains ongoing. His formal position as a non-working royal, meanwhile, has been reaffirmed by the palace.
