Many people across the country have experienced unexpected changes in their circumstances due to the coronavirus pandemic, and Northumbrian Water is sharing some ways in which it can help customers ensure their water bill is more affordable.
Some customers across the North East may be facing worrying and uncertain times and we know that the Government’s changes to the Furlough scheme may bring further change.
Northumbrian Water wants all of its customers to have Water Without the Worry by offering a wide range of free support, particularly in the current pandemic and for those people having difficulties with their finances.
Here are some of the ways the utility company can support customers with their bills:
- Check you are on the cheapest tariff for your current circumstances - the company may be able to offer a discount of up to 50% on your current charges. These tariffs are perfect if: your total household income is less than £16,105, or a member of your household receives Pension Credit or your income is not enough to cover your essential bills.
- Switching to a water meter may save you money. Check out the instant, online calculator to see if a meter would reduce your charges. A meter is free to install and you can track your water usage with an online account.
- If you’ve been made redundant or had a sudden change to your income and can’t afford to make your payments, Northumbrian Water can offer you a payment break. There’s no need to worry about the bill during this difficult time. So far this year, the utility company has helped over 7,000 of its customers with a payment break.
- There are many flexible payment plans to suit your household. If your income has reduced and you can’t afford your normal payment arrangements, please do not worry as the company can help you with a flexible payment arrangement.
- Please talk to Northumbrian Water as they are always happy to help and work with independent debt charity, StepChange, who provide free, expert debt advice and solutions for anyone looking to reduce arrears and re-schedule payments to ease debt problems.
Lisa Connell, Customer Service Manager for Northumbrian Water said: "We have a fantastic team ready to help our customers and give them the support they need. We have already helped many customers reduce their charges and provide an affordable payment plan to them.
"The worry of unpaid bills and getting into debt can cause a strain on people's health. It's important for people to know that they don't have to face their problems alone and that we are here to help, not just during the coronavirus pandemic but at any time.
"At Northumbrian Water, we're committed to keeping our essential services flowing and making sure we’re here for our customers where we can be. We understand you may be facing worrying or uncertain times, and we know that the Government’s changes to the Furlough scheme may bring further change.
“If your circumstances have already changed or you expect them to change in the future, the last thing we want is for you to worry about how you’ll pay your water bill. There are lots of ways we can help you, all you need to do is get in touch to talk about what we can do to support you.”
If you think you would benefit from a payment break, tariff or free debt advice, or know of a family member, friend or neighbour whose life would be made that little bit easier with some support, visit www.nwl.co.uk/bill-help or call 0800 121 4608.
To see how much you can save by switching to a meter, visit the online calculator: www.nwl.co.uk/services/water/water-meters/usage-calculator/