Charities call for universal water discount

The government has been urged to introduce a single water discount scheme across England and Wales. This would end the 'unfair postcode lottery' where support varies between different water companies.

The call was made in a letter to the water and flooding minister from 15 charities, including Independent Age. They said a universal discount would mean 'more people can access the water they need without having to make big sacrifices'.

At the moment, all water firms provide some kind of discount for low-income households. But the eligibility rules and level of support differ between companies. Plus, households can't switch to a different provider to get a better deal.

Research by Independent Age found that 40% of over-65s living on less than £15,000 a year in England have had to cut back on their water usage. In Wales, it was a third of this group.

Water bills are also set to rise by an average of 21% over the next five years starting next April.

Independent Age's chief exec Joanna Elson said: 'Where you live shouldn't affect how much support you get with water bills if money is tight. We know bills will keep going up, and older folks on low incomes will be really worried about affording the next increase.'

A government spokesperson said water firms need to have good support schemes in place for customers struggling to pay, including discounts and financial aid.

Help with water bills

There is support available for households who are struggling to pay their water bills. What support you’ll be offered will depend on your personal circumstances.

WaterSure: A scheme for households with high water usage

WaterSure is a scheme offered by water companies to help households who receive certain means-tested benefits. If you qualify, your water bill will be capped at the average household bill for your water company, even if you use more than the average amount of water.

To be eligible for WaterSure, you must:

• have a water meter or are in the process of having one installed
• receive one of the qualifying means-tested benefits, such as Income Support, Pension Credit, or Universal Credit.
• have three or more children under the age of 19 living in your household, or someone in your home has a medical condition that requires significant extra water usage.

Water Direct: paying your water bill directly from your benefits

If you receive certain benefits, you may be able to arrange for your water bill to be paid directly from your benefits through the Water Direct scheme. This can help you manage your budget more effectively and ensure your water bill is paid on time.

To set up Water Direct, contact your local Jobcentre Plus or the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). They will assess your eligibility and, if approved arrange for a fixed amount to be deducted from your benefits and paid directly to your water company.

Charitable trusts and hardship funds

Many water companies have charitable trusts or hardship funds to help households struggling to pay their water bills. These funds can provide grants to help cover the cost of water bills or arrears.

Contact your water company directly to apply for assistance from a charitable trust or hardship fund. They will be able to provide you with information on the available schemes and how to apply. Alternatively, use the Turn2Us grant searching tool to see what help you qualify for.

Other support options for water bills

In addition to the schemes mentioned above, there are other ways to get support with your water bills:

• Flexible payment plans: Your water company may offer flexible payment plans to help you spread the cost of your water bill over a longer period.
• Water-saving devices: Installing water-saving devices in your home can help reduce your water usage and, consequently, your water bill.
• Debt advice: Contact us for free debt advice if you’re behind with your bills and struggling. We can help find you the right solution to your debt problem and also make sure you’re claiming all the support you’re entitled to.

Remember, if you're having difficulty paying your water bill, it's essential to contact your water company as soon as possible. They can work with you to find a solution and prevent your debt from escalating.