By Kira Fairfield, Affordability and Vulnerability Lead
It’s not every day you get to meet royalty, so it was a true honour to be invited along with colleagues from Wessex Water, to meet Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal. She came to celebrate the two-year anniversary of the Advice Bus run by Citizens Advice in East Dorset & Purbeck. Her Royal Highness is the Patron of National Citizens Advice and during her visit she took time to hear about the positive impact the bus has.
It’s a fantastic project we’re proud to help fund, and one that’s making a real difference to the lives of people across rural communities.
Making a difference to people who need it most
I see daily how important it is to make support accessible to those who need it most. The Advice Bus is a brilliant example of doing just that—bringing face-to-face advice on issues like debt, housing, and water bills directly to communities that might otherwise be left behind.
Her Royal Highness heard about the challenges of digital exclusion and the importance of reaching customers in rural areas. We explained how we help people to over come these barriers.
Tackling isolation and inequality
At Bournemouth Water, we’re committed to supporting our customers—especially those who need extra support. Initiatives like the Advice Bus offer practical help and they’re a vital part of our wider affordability and vulnerability strategy, ensuring no one is left behind.
Her Royal Highness gave a closing speech that spoke warmly of efforts to reduce isolation and inequality.
You can find the Advice Bus timetable and more information on the Citizens Advice website.