Greater Manchester Older People's Network
WATER CAMPAIGN
GMOPN are working with Independent Age and United Utilities to transform water bills for older people in Greater Manchester.
Nearly 750,000 people over State Pension age are experiencing water poverty
38% of older people on low incomes struggle to keep up with water bills
35% of older people on low incomes are worried about their next water bill
In 2024, Independent Age undertook research into older people and experiences of water poverty, following an increase in older people contacting them to ask for support with water bills.
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Their report highlights the unspoken reality of water poverty and predictions for the years ahead. The report also discusses existing payment models and social tariff systems.
Independent Age have been calling on the UK Government to consult on a single social tariff for people on low incomes to help older people pay their water bills.
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Current social tariffs are dependent on water providers and are often a 'postcode lottery' that sometimes leave the most vulnerable people without eligible support. The current means-testing also means that something as small as a £5 difference in someone's pension determines if they do or do not qualify for support with their water bills.
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Last year the UK Government promised to consult on a national social tariff for water but left this out of their most recent plans for the water sector.
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Independent Age have recently launched a petition to make sure that this doesn't get forgotten about!
If you, or someone you know, is struggling to pay their water bills, contact Independent Age on 020 7605 4200