Rise in South West Water users on special tariff

SWW says it expects more people will qualify for help as public sector cutbacks bite

The number of people having trouble paying their water bills has risen in Devon and Cornwall.

According to South West Water (SWW) there has been a 34% increase in customers on a cut price tariff.

It said 8,300 customers are now on the WaterSure scheme where bills are capped at £480 a year.

The scheme is only available to certain people, including those on water meters who are claiming benefit or have more than three children.

SWW customers currently pay among the highest charges in the UK - with bills up to £150 more than the national average of £340.

'Hard time'

An estimated three out of 10 people in the South West are in "water poverty", with bills costing more than 3% of their income and there have been ongoing discussions with MPs, government ministers and the water regulator Ofwat about how bills could be reduced.

SWW spokeswoman Monica Reid said although the company was doing what it could to help struggling customers, the current economic situation was a factor.

"We know the regional economy is in for a hard time over the next couple of years as the public sector cutbacks happen," she told BBC News.

"As a result, I would expect there will be more customers going on to means-tested benefits that will make them eligible for WaterSure, so our assumption is we'll be seeing a great take up and an ongoing need for it."

The company also operates a WaterCare scheme, whereby eligible customers are offered simple repairs to prevent cisterns overflowing and taps dripping, payment plans, benefits advice and water saving devices.