The UK government has announced a major reform of the WaterSure support scheme that will reduce water bills for hundreds of thousands of vulnerable households. The overhaul—described as the most significant since the programme was introduced in 1999—will expand eligibility and adjust how bill caps are calculated, allowing around 300,000 households to benefit from lower charges.
WaterSure is designed to help low-income households that rely on large volumes of water due to medical conditions or because they have three or more children living at home. To qualify, customers must have a water meter or be waiting for one to be installed.
Currently, about 260,000 households benefit from the scheme, saving an average of £325 per year—more than a third of a typical water bill. Under the new rules, eligibility will be broadened to include households receiving disability benefits, which is expected to bring an additional 53,000 households into the programme.
Water Minister Emma Hardy said: “Vulnerable households are particularly affected by cost-of-living pressures, including water bills. Reforming WaterSure will make a meaningful difference to hundreds of thousands of families who need support the most.”
Alongside the eligibility expansion, the reforms will revise the way bill caps are set. Water companies will be required to apply the lowest available average bill—either overall averages or metered averages—ensuring customers benefit from the most favourable calculation. Single-occupancy households will also see their bills capped at the average cost for one person.
The changes aim to simplify the application process as well. Applicants will no longer need to pay for a doctor’s note to confirm a qualifying medical condition, reducing administrative barriers.
According to the government, the reforms will take effect in early 2027 and will be funded by an additional £1.14 onto the bills of other water customers. They form part of broader policy measures outlined in the national Water White Paper, which also includes the accelerated rollout of smart water meters and new efficiency labelling for household appliances to help consumers manage water use and costs.
