🚰💧 Water woes in the UK! Did you know almost 1 in 5 households had trouble paying their water bills last year? Citizens Advice has shed light on the struggles many are facing as water charges see their biggest surge in decades. For some, it’s led to financial strain, with over 20% ending up in debt with their suppliers. 😟
A survey from August revealed a harsh reality: 42% have had to cut back on essentials like groceries and energy to keep up with water bills. Even more concerning, 35% have started rationing their water use—cutting back on showers, toilet flushes, and washing clothes to make ends meet.
Why the squeeze? Prices shot up in January, bumping the average annual bill from under £500 to over £600. More pain followed in April, with an average increase of £86 added onto bills. 📈💸 In stark contrast, the water industry promises a record five-year investment plan to improve services and clean our waterways. Yet, for many, the immediate worry is simply managing their budget without sacrificing basic needs.
Citizens Advice is calling for a fairer deal—a single social tariff to help those on the lowest incomes. The current system feels like a ‘postcode lottery’, with support varying by provider. Plus, there’s a lack of information from providers about ways to save on bills, with only 18% of low-income households informed since April.
Frustration is growing, as complaints about water companies have hit a nine-year high. It’s time for decisive action to support UK households under pressure. 🏠💪 Let’s hope the government steps in to help those most in need, so families aren’t forced to choose between a hot shower and a hot meal. What are your thoughts? 💬 #WaterBills #CostOfLiving #CitizensAdvice