£200 million plan to tackle water poverty continues in the South West
Help reaching 125,000 people through South West Water’s winter support
South West Water is expanding its support this winter, with £200 million aimed at ensuring bills are affordable for customers across the South West.
With the cost of living continuing to rise, many households are feeling financial strain this festive period, spending an average of £700 more over winter, according to the Bank of England.
At the heart of South West Water’s plans is a pledge to eradicate water poverty by 2030. The commitment offers a range of measures to customers, including discounted tariffs, payment assistance, and water efficiency advice.
Additional support includes checking benefits entitlements to identify where customers may be eligible for further assistance.
The company is also driving its £5 million Better Futures programme, which funds community-led projects focused on wellbeing, education, and environmental resilience to help local groups alongside individual households.
Financial help this festive season
Lesley Horn, Customer Care Manager at South West Water, said the support is especially important during the financially demanding holiday period.
“We know how challenging the festive period can be financially and the last thing we want is for our customers to spend this special time worrying about their water bills.
“This December, and throughout the year, we’re committed to ensuring all our customers — especially those in vulnerable circumstances — receive the support they need.
“Our brilliant colleagues work hard all year round to deliver a service they can be proud of and always strive to put customers at the heart of everything we do.
“Around 125,000 customers now benefit from the support packages we offer, and we are working proactively to move customers in receipt of benefits or on lower incomes onto the lowest possible tariff for their circumstances.”