Southern Water's support is helping customers save an average of 20% off their bills - the rising cost of living is putting pressure on household incomes, particularly for the more vulnerable members of communities, according to the water company.

Two Southern Water Community Liaison Officers (CLOs) will be working with communities in Southampton this month to help tackle affordability issues and increase the amount of support to those in genuine financial hardship.

This includes a targeted programme of community engagement to promote and encourage uptake of the range of financial assistance schemes available.

Southern Water CLO Stuart Bailey said:

 “We understand our customers can experience financial problems, particularly in these difficult economic times and this is something we are committed to tackling.”

"It has become very clear a different and innovative approach is needed to establish and maintain meaningful contact. As well as engaging with independent agencies, we provide tailored advice to individual customers through a combination of home visits and road shows."

Southern Water is working closely with a range of local partners including Southampton City Council; Citizens Advice Bureau; social housing providers; and various community groups to identify opportunities to reach customers who may be in greatest need of support.

This year the firm’s CLOs have also carried out successful community engagement programmes in Thanet and Brighton, resulting in almost 1,400 people taking advantage of one of its financial assistance schemes. Southern Water saw a 46% increase in uptake in Thanet and more than 900 people signed up to schemes in Brighton.

According to Southern Water, customers in both Brighton and Thanet have saved an average of 20% by signing up to the Essentials Tariff.