Millions of UK households across the country face significant water bill increases in 2025, and Yorkshire Water is offering vital assistance to low-income customers through its social tariffs. Around 60,000 UK households in the region will benefit from automatic discounts on their bills, thanks to the company’s WaterSupport scheme. This article is based on reporting from Manchester Evening News.
Watersupport Scheme Offers Essential Relief
Yorkshire Water has announced that thousands of UK households who qualify for its WaterSupport scheme will automatically receive a discount on their 2025/26 water bills. This is particularly significant as the average water bill in Yorkshire is set to rise by £135 (approximately £11 per month).
With the discount, eligible UK households will see their bills reduced below the amount they paid in the previous year. In addition, for the many households not enrolled in the WaterSupport scheme, the £135 increase will apply to their water bills.
Additional Support for Low-Income Households
For those who face more significant financial hardship, Yorkshire Water also offers the WaterSure scheme, which keeps water bills at an average level for households on income-based benefits that use more water. The company has committed to a broader effort to support vulnerable customers, with 100,000 additional UK households expected to receive help between 2025 and 2030.
Rising Water Bills Across the UK
While this discount is a welcome relief for many, the general trend across the UK is an increase in water bills. On average, water bills in England and Wales will rise by 26% this year, with some regions seeing hikes of up to 47%.
The increase is being driven by a need to fund critical infrastructure improvements, including efforts to address environmental concerns.
Yorkshire Water has announced an £8.3 billion investment programme for the next five years, which aims to meet regulatory requirements and environmental expectations, with a focus on improving water and sewage systems.
How to Access Financial Support
Yorkshire Water has made it clear that customers do not need to apply for the WaterSupport discount if they are already enrolled. However, households that haven’t yet registered for the scheme can do so online or by phone, and may be eligible if their income is below £19,000 with a water bill exceeding £364 annually.
Customers are encouraged to provide proof of income, such as bank statements or benefit award notices, when applying.
In addition to the social tariffs, the company has introduced other programs, such as Resolve, Community Trust, and Direct Support, to help customers repay debts and reduce financial strain.
Over the next five years, these schemes are expected to help reduce bills by £375 million and provide much-needed assistance to UK households struggling to manage their water bills. This article is based on coverage by Manchester Evening News.
