Sutton and East Surrey Water (SESW) is launching its new Water Support Scheme with the aim of signing up  5000 customers by March 2016 – nearly double the 2,500-plus customers who signed up to last year’s pilot scheme.

Last year the company signed up more than 2,500 customers to its pilot scheme. The pilot was fully funded by the company and gave a 25 per cent discount off water charges to all eligible customers. From April 2015, the Water Support Scheme offers a 50 per cent discount and the company has set a target of signing up 5,000 customers by March 2016.

The scheme will be officially launched at The Belfry shopping centre in Redhill on Friday 24 April. Customer Projects Manager, Nicola McCormack along with Community Engagement Officer, Emily Wallis will be on hand throughout the day providing information and advice.

To fit the criteria customers must be in receipt of certain means tested benefits such as income support or pension credits. Alternatively they must have a household income of less than the HMRC’s low income threshold (currently £16,105) and either be over 62 years of age, have a disability or parental responsibility for a child under five.

Nicola Mc Cormack commented:

“Our Water Support Scheme provides an opportunity for the company to help some of our customers most in need of financial support.  We would encourage anyone who thinks they may be eligible to apply straight away.”