LOW-INCOME households across North East Wales and Chester are being urged by the Consumer Council for Water (CCWater) to seek support from a new scheme that could prevent water bills from draining their finances.

The water watchdog says Dee Valley Water customers who are struggling to pay their water bills should check whether they might qualify for assistance from the company’s Here2Help scheme, which launches on April 1.

CCWater has worked closely with the water supplier to help develop the social tariff, which can reduce the water bills of households with a total income of less than £15,500 a year. The level of support they receive will depend on individual circumstances.

Tom Taylor, CCWater’s Wales Chair, said: “Our research shows that a significant number of water customers struggle to afford their water bills, so schemes like Here2Help are urgently needed.”

“Our message is simple. If you’re struggling financially please don’t suffer in silence – get in touch with Dee Valley Water and see whether you’re entitled to help.”

Customers in financial difficulty may also seek support with their sewerage charges from Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water’s HelpU scheme opens in new window, which was launched in April 2015.

For more information on Here2Help visit www.deevalleywater.co.uk or visit our guide to social tariffs where you’ll also find advice on other ways to reduce your water bills.