The body representing independent water networks has called on the Government and water regulator, Ofwat, to introduce a single social tariff for water bills that would end the ‘postcode lottery’ of customer support that is available.
There is currently no national scheme to ensure that everybody receives the same level of support, no matter who their supplier is. Because of this, the help people receive varies depending on where they live. For instance, customers on a social tariff in Yorkshire on average receive a £228 reduction to their bills, compared with just £110 for those in the south of England.
With water bills rising, the Independent Networks Association (INA) has restated its call for a social tariff for water bills.
Nicola Pitts, Executive Director at the INA said:
“There are currently 1.6 million households who are receiving financial support with their water bill, and with price rises this April this number is bound to grow, but the support you receive shouldn’t be dictated by your postcode.”
The INA has pointed out that the principle of such a scheme was set in the recently introduced Water (Special Measures) Act. A key component of the Act is the inclusion of the “Special Provision in Charges” scheme.
Nicola added: “This scheme can enable financial redistribution between water companies, allowing for payments into a central fund or direct transfers to cover the costs of supporting eligible customers with their bills. Furthermore, provisions for data sharing could help target assistance more effectively.”
