According to a recent survey done by YouGov, British people are too embarrassed to ask for free tap water in restaurants, opting to pay for bottled water instead.
While nearly three-quarters of the public would like more availability of free tap water, many either not aware of their rights, or are nervous to ask for tap water.
The study showed 71% of people are uncomfortable asking for free tap water, without also buying something else while 37% are still uncomfortable asking for it, even if they are also making a purchase.
Even though licenced premises in England, Scotland and Wales are legally obliged to provide free drinking water, three out of four people are unaware of their water rights, and only 11% normally get tap water from cafes or restaurants.
Other water rights in England, Scotland and Wales include the provision of drinking water by schools for all pupils at all times and free drinking water for staff in the workplace by all UK employers at all times.
The issue is a contributory factor to the 7.7 billion plastic water bottles used in Britain every year – of all the bottles used currently only a limited number are recycled.
Northumbrian Water have come up with a possible solution to help address the issue. The water company has teamed up with over 45 restaurants across the region and provided them with branded glassware sets for customers who choose to drink tap water.
When diners ask for tap water they will be given it in one of the Northumbrian Water carafes or bottles with the official ‘100% Northumbrian Water’ brand on it.
The glassware sets are being used in top establishments across the region including Marco Pierre White’s in Newcastle, Six at The Baltic, Matfen Hall, The Staith House in North Shields, Peace and Loaf in Jesmond, NUFC, the South Causey Inn, Ramside Hall, Zen in Durham and Seaham Hall.
Tap water in the North East is one of the highest quality tap waters in the UK.
Click here to download the report in full Understanding provision, usage and perceptions of free drinking water to the public in the UK