Essex & Suffolk Water are urging people to make the first move in talking about their finances and to contact the water company for support with their bills to help anyone needing a hand through these testing times.
Talk Money Week is an annual campaign, organised by the Money & Pension Service, to encourage the nation to talk about money and celebrate the work done by thousands of organisations, including Essex & Suffolk Water. It also helps to raise awareness and build financial wellbeing across the country.
The water company has helped almost 43,000 of its customers since March with affordable and reduced tariffs, as well as payment break through its WaterSure scheme - which is for customers on a water meter that receive certain benefits and need to use a lot of water.
The utility company is urging its customers who might benefit from financial support to get in touch, as it has lots of ways to help them with their bills. The company also has a long-standing relationship 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.
Mark Wilkinson Head of Income for Essex & Suffolk Water said: "Talk Money Week is a great opportunity to focus on an issue that affects people in many ways, not only financially. The worry of debt and some of the consequences of unpaid bills 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 help is available.
"We always look to support our customers who are genuinely struggling and would ask anyone who is finding it hard to pay their water bills to take that first step and to get in touch with us. Our tariffs can offer extra help when it′s most needed.
"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 free debt advice, a payment break or reduced bill tariff or know of a family member, friend, or neighbour whose life would be made that little bit - or a lot - easier with some support, get in touch today by calling 0800 121 4605 or visit www.eswater.co.uk/bill-help