A SCHEME to help residents struggling to pay their water bill has been extended by Severn Trent because of the number of people struggling because of the cost of living crisis.
The £30million fund will help 100,000 people pay their water bill with some being able to get up to a 90 per cent reduction on their charges.
Severn Trent is the first water provider to offer support on this scale and it already provides assistance to 215,000 people through a range of different schemes.
According to the Consumer Council for Water, six per cent of people in the Midlands are classed as being in ‘water poverty’.
The term applies to people who spend more than five per cent of their total income (after household costs) on their water bill.
The Big Difference Scheme can offer a reduction of water bills to any Severn Trent customer with a household income below £16,385.
Liv Garfield, Severn Trent CEO, said: “As cost of living pressures continue to rise, we’re acting now to support people struggling to pay their bills.
“Our customers have the second lowest bill in the UK, at around £1 per day, but we know that for some, paying this remains a challenge.
“I’m pleased to announce a commitment today to help thousands more people on low incomes to reduce their water bill by up to 90 per cent.”
Emma Clancy, Chief Executive of the Consumer Council for Water (CCW), said: “No one should have to worry about being to afford their water bill so we’re delighted to see Severn Trent putting its hand in its own pocket to help thousands more low-income households at a time of real crisis for many people.
“Our independent review of water affordability sets out a clear path to ending people’s worries over water bills and with the support of companies like Severn Trent and the wider water sector we can ensure people struggling to pay always get the help they need, when they need it most.”
CBI Midlands Director Rick Blackmore said: “The rising cost of living is having an acute impact on families and businesses across the country, and support for those most in need is essential and welcome.
“Responsible businesses have gone to great lengths to support their most vulnerable customers, just as they have throughout the difficulties of the past two years.
“Severn Trent’s support fund for low-income families is a great example of a business playing their part to protect people in need during times of crisis.”
People wanting to check if they are eligible for assistance should visit stwater.co.uk/caringforyou for more information.
