Proposed reforms to the WaterSure support scheme

Overview

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) wants to know what you think about proposed reforms to the ‘WaterSure’ scheme. These proposals will offer stronger protection to low-income households with high essential water use.

WaterSure caps bills for low-income households on means-tested benefits who need to use high levels of water because they have either:

• a qualifying medical condition
• 3 or more children in the household

WaterSure caps the household’s water and sewerage bill at the amount of the average household water and sewerage bill in the water company’s area.

We are seeking views on following proposals:

1. Extending the list of qualifying benefits to include non-means tested disability benefits for those claiming through a qualifying medical condition.
2. Updating the WaterSure bill cap to the amount of the average metered or unmetered bill (whichever is lower).
3. Capping bills for single occupiers at the average bill for a single occupier.
4. Removing the option for water companies to require a medical practitioner’s note for health conditions not specifically listed in the WaterSure regulations.
5. Specifically listing more potentially qualifying medical conditions.

Why your views matter

Your views will help us implement changes in the most effective manner, while minimising any unintended effects on industry stakeholders and customers, including specific groups or demographics. 

This is a public consultation, and we welcome all views, particularly those from:

• water companies operating wholly or mainly in England
• non-governmental organisations (NGOs)
• customer representation organisations
• regulatory bodies
• consumers
• any other party likely to be affected by the proposed changes