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<p>This is a devolved matter and the information provided therefore relates to England
only.</p><p> </p><p>The Government’s November 2017 ‘S<a href="https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/661803/sps-ofwat-2017.pdf"
target="_blank">trategic policy statement</a> to Ofwat’, the economic regulator for
the water industry, challenged the water industry to do more for vulnerable customers
in England, including older people. In Ofwat’s Price Review 2019 process in which
water companies set out their business plans for 2020-25, Ofwat required companies
to set out in their business plans how they would better identify and support those
customers who need financial help. Work on the plans is ongoing.</p><p> </p><p>Current
support includes the Government mandated WaterSure scheme which enables water companies
to cap bills for eligible low income customers using a lot of water for essential
family or health reasons. All water companies also offer schemes, known as social
tariffs, for eligible customers on low incomes or receiving specific benefits. Approximately
400,000 household customers currently benefit from such water bill support schemes.</p><p>
</p><p>Legislative powers recently put in place in the Digital Economy Act 2017 allow
data sharing between water companies and other organisations, including Government
departments such as the Department for Work and Pensions. This will help companies
identify and consequently provide support to more customers who may need help with
their bills.</p><p> </p>
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