Severn Trent is encouraging customers to check its available support schemes, to make sure that anyone needing extra support knows what’s available to them this winter.

It’s also encouraging customers to look at what financial help is also available, as they may be able to be eligible for up to 70% off their water bill through the water company’s Big Difference Scheme.

Latest figures show that over 250,000 customers are getting some form of bill support from Severn Trent.

By talking to Severn Trent, customers can access additional help and a personalised service that can relieve pressure during the winter months.

The support schemes available to customers includes savings of up to 70% off water bills for those eligible, help with income and/or debt support, essential items for the home, and help for young families, low-income families and those living with medical conditions.

Mark Grice, Community Relationship Manager at Severn Trent, said: “It’s important to us that our customers get the service and support they need. We know that life can change unexpectedly, which is why we encourage customers to let us know if they or anyone they know needs some extra help.

“As well as being able to offer bill  support, through our Priority Services Register we’re able to identify who needs bottled water in a water supply issue due to a medical condition, who needs their bill in a different format or who is going through a temporary life event should we need to contact them.

“Our teams are trained to handle all calls confidently, and with sensitivity, so we’d really encourage you to get in touch as there may be something we can do to help make things a bit easier.”

Severn Trent keep the confidential information so in the event of a water supply issue, it can reach out to customers who need to be checked in on, making sure they have what they need. It also means teams calling to discuss bills, or customer accounts, can be made aware of circumstances to help provide extra support, or any sensitivity needed.

Severn Trent has plenty of affordability schemes available, that can help customers struggling with their bills. They include:

·         Big Difference Scheme: where eligible customers may save up to 70% off their bill.

·         WaterSure: where customers’ bills can be capped if you have low income, a medical condition or large family.

·         Debt support: matching and/or helping to pay off any debt on the account

·         Water Direct: paying the bill through benefits

·         Flexible Payment plans: extending the period over which customers pay at a frequency that suits them

·         Single Occupier: if customers live alone and can’t have a meter fitted, they may benefit from a lower tariff

For a full list of the criteria for eligibility please visit: stwater.co.uk/priority.