Protecting rivers, reducing leakage and improving water quality are just some of the benefits customers will see from United Utilities’ largest investment in water and wastewater services in 100 years.
The North West’s water company has unveiled a new investment plan of more than £13 billion for 2025 -2030 which will strengthen the sewer network against increased rainfall to reduce flood risk to homes and businesses and improve the quality of rivers, by decreasing storm overflow spills.
This investment will also help to improve water quality for 1.4 million customers, protect and enhance over 500km of rivers and bathing waters, whilst helping to reduce leakage by 26% by 2030. The improvements will also see a huge boost for the North West economy, supporting 30,000 jobs in the region.
“The scale of our five-year investment plan means that unfortunately bills will need to increase to ensure the services we provide are resilient to climate change, meet the demands of a growing population, and address the priorities of our customers,” Sally Ainsworth, head of customer services at United Utilities, explains.
“We know that for many customers, any additional increase will put a strain on households which are already finding things difficult due to the rising cost of living.”
United Utilities has committed to helping those who need help the most by announcing £525 million of affordability support will be made available over the next five years, aiming to help one in six households with their bills.
Here are some of the schemes available:
Back on Track Scheme:
If you’re receiving benefits, are earning a low income, or finding it difficult to pay your bill following a recent change in financial circumstances, the ‘Back on Track’ scheme can help reduce the amount you pay.
Help to Pay Scheme:
Do you receive Pension Credit? If so, you can apply to have your bills reduced through the ‘Help to Pay’ scheme and save up to £199 a year compared to the average bill amount.
Payment Break Scheme:
If you have a low income and are struggling with your bill payments due to losing your job or having to pay out for an unexpected household emergency, you can delay your bill payments for an agreed period, through the ‘Payment Break’ scheme.
Did you know there are some quick and easy ways to reduce your bill too?
Direct Debit:
Customers can also make bills more affordable by paying by via direct debit. This will allow you to spread your payments over the year. United Utilities will also provide customers with a £5 annual discount for paying in this way.
Cheaper with a meter:
If you don’t have a water meter already you may find it is cheaper, particularly if you have more bedrooms than people. United Utilities’ ‘Lowest Bill Guarantee’ scheme means you won’t pay more than your current fixed charge. Having a water meter installed could save you money on bills in the long run – 93% of United Utilities’ customers who have switched have saved money, with a majority saving £150 per year after their switch.
Sally added: “We really don’t want our customers to worry about their water bill so please get in touch if you’re having payment worries or you simply require additional support. We have lots of ways to make your bills more affordable and manageable, but it’s important you speak to us so we know you’re having problems and can recommend the best way to help.”
Support when you need it most
We can all benefit from a bit of extra help at some point in our lives and that’s why United Utilities Priority Service Scheme offers additional support for those who may be struggling due to age, ill health, disability, mental health problems, or language barriers.
Since launching in 2015, more than 400,000 people across the North West have now registered for United Utilities’ Priority Services Scheme. Registering is free, and it means customers can benefit from additional services to support individual needs, including:
• A dedicated team to listen and help
• Braille, large print, ‘talking’ bills and text relay service
• Knock and wait service if you have mobility needs
• Nominate a carer, family member or friend to speak to us on your behalf
• Additional support if you have a medical need for water
• Protection from bogus callers with a password protection scheme
• Notice of interruptions to your water supply
• Translation services
If you are struggling with your bill, United Utilities urges customers to get in touch and have friendly teams on hand to provide support and guidance. For more information call 0800 072 6765 or visit unitedutilities.com/difficulty-paying-bill