United Utilities is calling on customers affected by the reduction in Universal Credit payments to get in touch if they are worried about their water bill.

The company has a range of support schemes to help make water bills more affordable, especially if the customer is receiving benefits such as Universal Credit.

The number to call is 0800 072 6765.

The company can also offer support to those customers who are applying for UC for the first time, delaying water bill payments for up to eight weeks until their first UC payment arrives. Then, when the customer is able to start paying again, United Utilities can spread those payments across a much longer period of time so they are not under any additional financial pressure.

Jane Haymes from United Utilities says: “When the customer calls, we will also check to see if they are eligible for any of our other support schemes. This includes our Back on Track scheme which provides a lower bill based on the benefits they receive or if they have been financially affected by COVID, such as being furloughed or made redundant at any time since the start of the pandemic.”

Cheaper water bills for people receiving the warm home energy discount

People who qualify for the warm home energy discount are being encouraged to contact United Utilities to apply for a reduction in their water bills too.

The company’s Help to Pay scheme is aimed at customers who receive Pension Credit and can reduce water bills by as much as £168 a year.

Jane Haymes from United Utilities says: “We know that for some of our customers, meeting water bill payments can be difficult especially if you are on a low income.

“So if the customer is eligible for the Warm Home Discount from their energy company due to receiving Pension Credit, I would encourage them to give us a call as it’s likely they will also be eligible for our Help to Pay scheme too.”

The number to call is 0800 072 6765.