Commissioner ‘very disappointed’ that UK Government will not introduce social tariff for Water

Older People’s Commissioner for Wales, Rhian Bowen-Davies, said:

“It is very disappointing that the UK Government will not be taking forward the recommendation from the Independent Water Commission to introduce a social tariff for water, a measure I supported alongside a wide range of other organisations.

“People on low incomes, including many older people, are already being forced to cut back on washing, laundry and even flushing the toilet to try to keep bills down, something that is simply not acceptable: people should not have to restrict their water use just to make ends meet, which can increase the risk of illness and infection as well as leading to stress, stigma, and social isolation.

“A social tariff for water would provide much needed, meaningful and consistent support for people on low incomes, and play an important role in alleviating water poverty, a growing issue that is expected to affect around a million older households across the UK by 2029.

“I would therefore urge the UK Government to rethink its decision and work with the water industry and stakeholders to ensure that customers who are struggling financially can access the support they need.”