Save big on water bills with a groundbreaking scheme designed to provide significant relief to working households in Wales. Learn about the Cymuned Support Fund offering a three-month ‘charge-free’ period, equivalent to a discount of £100-£120 on average bills. Discover how this initiative is making a positive impact on household finances.
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Until now, Dŵr Cymru (Welsh Water) primarily provided financial assistance to households receiving means-tested benefits. However, a new initiative, the Cymuned (Community) Support Fund, aims to extend support to working households in Wales facing financial challenges. This program is designed for households whose water bills exceed their income, offering them a three-month “charge-free” period. This translates to a discount of approximately £100-£120 on the average bill.
The program’s launch follows a successful pilot phase conducted in Rhondda Cynon Taf and Denbighshire over the last six months. During this trial period, eligible participants experienced nearly a 25% reduction in their annual water bills. One beneficiary, Maria from Rhyl, shared her experience: “I work for a homeless shelter, and financial support is usually limited due to my modest income. Learning about the Cymuned Fund through my local Citizens Advice team was a relief. This assistance has alleviated significant pressure caused by rising essential costs.”
To qualify for the support, households must have a combined total income of £50,000 per year or less, and their household bills must surpass their incomes. Individuals benefiting from a Dŵr Cymru social tariff or debt scheme are not eligible for this program. Interested customers can apply through partner organizations such as Citizens Advice, StepChange Debt Charity, or Warm Wales. These organizations will evaluate applicants’ income and expenses to determine eligibility. If eligible, they will then submit applications on behalf of households to Dŵr Cymru.
Dŵr Cymru already assists over 147,000 households with bill payments, the highest number of households it has ever supported. Starting April 2023, low-income customers on the HelpU tariff have had their annual bills capped at £291, a significant reduction from the average household bill of £499.
Recognizing the financial difficulties faced by their customers, Dŵr Cymru encourages those experiencing challenges to reach out for solutions promptly. These solutions include flexible payment plans or the installation of a free water meter. Sam James, managing director of household customer services, emphasized that the Cymuned scheme is the first of its kind, aiming to offer financial support to eligible working households in the communities they serve.
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