An additional 53,000 households are set to receive an average discount of £325 on their water bills through an enhancement of the WaterSure assistance program. This initiative, which limits water bills for specific high water usage households, will now include individuals receiving certain disability benefits.
Eligibility for the WaterSure scheme will now extend to those who receive Disability Living Allowance, Attendance Allowance, or Personal Independence Payments (PIP) and have a household income below £25,745 annually. Currently, around 260,000 households benefit from this scheme, saving an average of £325 each, according to the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs.
To qualify, households must have a water meter and be considered high water users due to a medical condition or having three or more children at home. Applicants will no longer require a doctor’s note for application.
The reforms in eligibility will also adjust how the price cap is calculated, potentially providing existing recipients with additional savings of up to £100. Water Minister Emma Hardy stated that these changes aim to alleviate financial burdens, especially for vulnerable families struggling with water bills.
Mike Keil, Chief Executive of the Consumer Council for Water (CCW), expressed satisfaction with the government’s adoption of most of the recommended changes to the WaterSure scheme. These improvements are expected to offer relief to more customers who rely on significant water usage for essential needs.
James Taylor, director of strategy at disability equality charity Scope, welcomed the news of expanded eligibility for discounted water bills for disabled families. He highlighted the financial challenges faced by disabled households, emphasizing the necessity of increased support in managing high water costs.
The adjustments to the WaterSure scheme are part of ongoing efforts to prioritize customer welfare, environmental protection, and the sustainability of the water system, aligning with the Water White Paper’s overarching goals.