A significant expansion of the WaterSure discount scheme from 2027 could lead to hundreds of pounds in annual savings for households across the UK where at least one member receives disability benefits. The current scheme, designed to cap water bills for vulnerable customers, is set to broaden its eligibility criteria, potentially offering financial relief to hundreds of thousands more households.
Currently, the WaterSure scheme helps customers on specific benefits who have a water meter and either a medical condition requiring high water usage or three or more children under 16 living at home. It caps their annual bill at the average household bill for their water company, preventing them from paying excessive amounts due to their particular circumstances.
The proposed expansion, highlighted by Money Saving Expert, will significantly widen the net of eligible beneficiaries. From 2027, the scheme is expected to include all households where at least one person receives a disability benefit, regardless of whether they have a medical condition requiring high water usage or a large family. This change represents a substantial shift in how water companies support their most vulnerable customers.
The move is part of broader efforts to ensure water affordability and to provide targeted support to those who need it most. Water bills, like other utility costs, have been a growing concern for many households, particularly those on fixed incomes or with additional needs. The expansion of WaterSure aims to mitigate some of this financial pressure.
Ofwat, the water services regulation authority for England and Wales, is understood to be consulting on the final details of these changes. Once the consultation period concludes, a final decision on the expanded eligibility criteria and implementation schedule is expected later this year, paving the way for the scheme to come into effect from 2027. While the exact savings will vary depending on water usage and the specific water company, the potential for hundreds of pounds in annual savings will be a welcome development for many.
The initiative underscores a growing recognition among regulators and utility providers of the need for more inclusive and supportive policies for disabled individuals and their families. It reflects a commitment to ensuring essential services remain accessible and affordable for all, particularly those facing additional costs associated with disability.