Northumbrian Water is urging people to open up about their finances during Talk Money Week (6 – 10 November) and to let the firm know if they’re worried about paying their water bill.
The water company is dedicated to supporting its customers financially during this significant week and throughout the year, currently helping 78,000 customers across the North East with a reduced or capped bill.
Talk Money Week is an annual campaign, organised by the Money & Pension Service, to encourage the nation to be more open about their finances, and to raise awareness about financial well-being.
Northumbrian Water has lots of measures in place to help people who are in debt or even just feeling the pinch, and is urging those customers to get in touch now, especially in the run-up to Christmas.
People may be able to benefit from a number of different schemes, including discounted tariffs, with some customers eligible for up to 50% off their water bill, payment plans to help make monthly payments more affordable, or payment breaks for when customers just need some breathing space.
Those who are on a water meter may also be able to get their water bills capped, if they’re in receipt of income-related benefits and either have a large family or a medical condition which means they need to use more water than most.
In some cases, a water meter might be able to save homeowners money, so that they’re only paying for the water they’re using.
Northumbrian Water also works with its partners StepChange, to offer free debt advice and help managing any debt.
Mark Wilkinson Head of Income for Northumbrian Water said: "Talk Money Week is a great opportunity for us to reinforce the commitment we have to support our customers in managing their water bills.
“At this time of year, people’s attention usually starts turning to Christmas and we know that the run up to the festive period usually brings more financial pressures and worries.
“We want people to know that we have many ways we can help and we’re dedicated to providing practical solutions, tailored support and guidance to support them when things get difficult.
“The last thing we want is for anyone to ever worry about paying their water bill – all we ask for them to do is talk to us and we can help.”
Anyone who needs financial support should contact Northumbrian Water on Facebook or Twitter, or by calling 0345 733 5566 or visiting www.nwl.co.uk/bill-help