NewsBeat
Water bill help as 53,000 more disabled households eligible
The Government is expanding the WaterSure scheme, meaning an extra 53,000 households on disability benefits like DLA, PIP, or Attendance Allowance could save hundreds each year.
The scheme caps bills for households that use high amounts of water due to medical needs or larger families.
Existing recipients already save an average of £325 a year, and the new reforms could add up to £100 more in savings for many.
Who qualifies for WaterSure?
To be eligible, households must:
- Be on a qualifying disability benefit such as Disability Living Allowance, Attendance Allowance, or Personal Independence Payment (PIP).
- Have a household income below £25,745 per year.
- Have a water meter and be high water users due to a medical condition or three or more children at home.
Good news: Applicants no longer need to pay for a doctor’s note, cutting extra costs.
It’s #MoneyMonday!
WaterSure is a scheme that helps people who use more water because of a disability. The scheme adds a cap to your water rates, so you will not be charged more if you use over the average water amount. Contact your local water supplier to see if you qualify. pic.twitter.com/zHydz5SyZi
— Dosh Tweets (@DoshTweets) November 13, 2023
How much could you save?
- Average existing savings: £325 per household.
- Extra savings under reforms: Up to £100 for most households.
- Total potential savings: £425 for some families per year.
Tip: Check if your water supplier participates in WaterSure to claim your savings.
Government and charity support
Water Minister Emma Hardy said: “Reforming WaterSure will make a meaningful difference to hundreds of thousands of families who need support the most.”
Mike Keil, CEO of the Consumer Council for Water, added: “These improvements will bring peace of mind to tens of thousands more customers whose circumstances mean they have no choice but to use a significant amount of water for essential needs.”
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James Taylor from Scope said, “Life costs more if you are disabled, and it’s very good news that more disabled families will qualify for discounted water bills.
“Water bills for some disabled families can be eye-wateringly high.”
Rising living costs, including water bills, hit vulnerable households hardest.
Expanding WaterSure ensures families who rely on extra water for medical or disability needs are no longer left paying excessive bills.
How to apply
- Contact your water supplier to check if you qualify.
- Provide proof of benefits and household income.
- Confirm your water meter and high-usage eligibility.
You don’t need a doctor’s note anymore, so the application is simpler and cheaper than before.