Responding to the Prime Minister’s speech, Tom MacInnes, Director of Policy at Citizens Advice, said:
“Rising bills are pushing more people over the edge – we’re seeing almost 200 people every day with water debt. The government’s announcement today of a strengthened Water Bill is a chance to change this and put consumers at the heart of much-needed reform.
“This must include proper support with bills. Right now, the help you get depends on who supplies your area, rather than your level of need. This means two people could have the exact same income, but living just miles apart makes the difference between getting support or not. That leaves too many people scrambling to make ends meet, or falling into the red.
“That’s why we continue to campaign for a national water social tariff. It’s a practical step the government can take to help struggling households keep the wolf from the door.”
- Just over 32,000 people have sought help from Citizens Advice about water debts so far this year (until the end of Aug). This amounts to 193 people a day, or 24 people per hour.
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