Citizens Advice Powys Team Honoured at Buckingham Palace Garden Party

Yasmin Bell and Alison Schmeinck from Citizens Advice Powys were among guests invited
to Buckingham Palace this week for a Royal Garden Party hosted by The King and Queen —
recognition that highlights the vital role the charity plays in supporting communities across
Powys.
The invitation celebrated the dedication of volunteers and staff who work tirelessly to help
local people across the UK including those facing financial hardship, housing issues, debt,
employment concerns and rising living costs.
Citizens Advice Powys has seen growing demand for support in recent years, particularly
during the energy and cost-of-living crisis, when advisers helped residents struggling with
soaring oil and heating bills across rural communities.
Chief Officer Yasmin Bell said the Palace invitation was “a proud moment” for the
organisation and reflected the commitment of the entire team.
“Every day our advisers work with people who are worried about how they will pay their
bills, keep warm or manage unexpected crises,” they said. “This recognition belongs to
everyone involved in delivering that support across Powys.”
The charity is celebrating its 25-year anniversary since it began providing vital support across
Powys and continues to provide free, confidential and independent advice to thousands of
residents each year, often helping people access financial support they did not know they
were entitled to.
With demand for services remaining high, Citizens Advice Powys is also encouraging local
residents and businesses to support its work through donations and fundraising, helping
ensure advice services remain available for those who need them most.
The Buckingham Palace visit offered a moment of celebration — but also served as a
reminder of the quiet, essential work taking place every day to support some of the most
vulnerable people in Powys.