Friday 16 September 2016

Cash-strapped consumers missing out on lower water bills

Cash-strapped consumers missing out on lower water bills

Tens of thousands of householders in England and Wales are missing out on support that could significantly reduce their water bills.

That’s according to the Consumer Council for Water (CCWater), which has worked with 19 water companies in recent years to launch social tariff schemes. That can reduce the amount low income households have to pay for their water and sewerage bills.

The other two water firms out of the 21 are expected to launch schemes next year.

CCWater adds the tariffs have the potential to help more than 400,000 struggling households however less than a third of customers (128,200) who could receive help have so far signed up.

CCWater is urging householders to sign up as they can reduce bills by as much as 90% depending on each water company’s tariff and a customer’s financial circumstances.

Senior Policy Manager Andy White said: “Although there is now more help than ever before to support water customers, thousands of struggling households continue to miss out.

“We are working with companies to help them improve the promotion of their schemes and raise awareness of the help which is available. We would urge anyone struggling to afford their water bill to let their company know so they can help.”

Written by

Bruna Pinhoni

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