Almost half (46%) of older adults (65+) in England and Wales living on a low income are currently cutting back their spending on their water usage either a ‘great deal’ or a ‘fair amount, according to a new YouGov poll commissioned by charity Independent Age.
- 46% of older people on a low income reduced the amount of times they flush the toilet toreduce their water bill
- 41% reduced how often they use the washing machine
- 31% reduced how often they shower
The new research also showcases the widespread anxiety felt by many older people in financial hardship regarding their water bills. The polling found that 43% of older people on a low income are worried about meeting the cost of their water bill over the next six months.
Independent Age is calling for a national social tariff for water which would mean people of all ages living on a low income would qualify for consistent financial support to lower their water bills. In 2024 the charity’s own research revealed that without intervention, the number of older people living in water poverty could rise from 750,000 to almost a million by 2029/30.
Independent Age welcomes the latest findings from the Independent Water Commission who reported on Monday 21st July and recommended the introduction of a national social tariff in England.
Morgan Vine, Director of Policy and Influencing
“Older people on a low income in England and Wales are in desperate need of a national social tariff for water, without it, there will be a tsunami of water poverty among people of all ages including our older generation. The people in later life we support tell us the drastic lengths they are taking to reduce their water bills including only washing a couple times a week, not flushing the toilet and no longer filling up the kettle. This shouldn’t be happening in a modern wealthy society. Our national polling clearly demonstrates they are not alone and that older people in financial hardship are experiencing widespread anxiety around water bills.
“We urge the UK Government to listen to the voices of people on low income and the Independent Water Commission, and start working towards establishing a national social tariff for water that protects people in financial hardship and ends the postcode lottery of support as soon as possible. While all water companies must offer a social tariff, they vary considerably in generosity and eligibility criteria. Where you live shouldn’t dictate how much help you receive.
“We are ready to support the UK Government’s efforts to lower water bills. Now is the time for action, there can be no delay.”
Judith Howard, 78, London said:
“If a national social tariff lowers my water bills, it could change my life. I never thought I would have to ration my water usage in later life.
“I’ve stopped having baths and just use my basin to wash myself as I can’t afford to have a shower put in. I no longer use the washing machine as it is too expensive to run. I now do all my laundry at the launderette which is a bus ride away. I have even resorted to restricting the number of times I flush the loo. I don’t like living this way, but I have no choice.”