Household water bills are set to see a significant increase in England and Wales, with an average rise of £123 or 26% to the annual bill from April 1. According to industry body Water UK, this rise will push the average water and wastewater bill from £480 to £603 for the upcoming year. In Wales specifically, households could witness a staggering 42% increase in their water bills over the next five years, ranking among the highest in the UK.
The largest water company in Wales, Welsh Water Dwr Cymru, is permitted to raise its bills from an average of £455 this year to £645 in five years. Additionally, Hafren Dyfrdwy, serving approximately 87,000 customers along the Wales-England border, is planning to hike bills by 32% starting from April. These increases are expected to facilitate more investment in addressing issues such as leaks and sewage overflows within the water infrastructure.
For households bracing themselves for these impending bill hikes, seeking advice and support is crucial. A key recommendation is to reach out to your water company as the first course of action. They may extend various forms of assistance such as debt-support programmes, financial hardship funds, or temporary relief from payments. The Consumer Council for Water (CCW) is another valuable resource, offering guidance on resolving complaints against water companies and providing free advice.
CCW highlights several schemes that can help consumers manage their water bills effectively. Social tariffs, which are offered by all water companies, cater to eligible customers by reducing their water bills. The WaterSure scheme, available for specific customers with water meters, enables capping of bills. Moreover, registering for the Priority Services Register (PSR) can unlock additional support from water companies for customers facing challenges due to illness, disability, or other circumstances.
In the realm of wider support services, organisations like Citizens Advice, Money Helper, National Debtline, Step Change, and Scope provide assistance, including aid with water bill payments. By exploring these avenues, individuals can access a range of options tailored to their needs. It is essential to proactively engage with these support networks to navigate the changing landscape of water bill affordability.
As the cost of living continues to rise, staying informed about available resources and strategies to manage expenses becomes paramount. By taking proactive steps to engage with water companies, consumer organisations, and support services, individuals can navigate the challenges posed by escalating water bills. The evolving scenario underscores the importance of seeking assistance and exploring available avenues for financial relief.
In conclusion, as water bills are poised to increase substantially in Wales, accessing support services and schemes can offer crucial assistance to households grappling with financial constraints. By tapping into available resources and seeking guidance from consumer advocacy groups, individuals can navigate the impact of rising water bills effectively. Stay informed, reach out for help, and explore tailored solutions to alleviate the burden of escalating water expenses.