The WaterSure scheme is being expanded to help more low income households who use higher volumes of water due to medical needs or family circumstances.
Under the revised rules, eligible households must have a water meter and either a qualifying medical condition or at least three children living at home. The scheme caps water bills for those who meet the criteria.
Currently, around 260,000 households benefit from WaterSure. The expansion is expected to extend support to an additional 53,000 low income homes. In total, about 300,000 households will receive financial assistance once the changes take effect.
The reforms represent the first major update to the scheme since it was introduced in 1999. The changes also broaden eligibility to include more benefits administered by the Department for Work and Pensions, and will allow people living alone to qualify for assistance.
Officials have also confirmed that applicants will no longer need to provide a paid medical certificate to apply, a move intended to simplify and speed up access to support.
Consumer groups have welcomed the announcement.
Mike Keil, Chief Executive of the Consumer Council for Water, said the improvements will provide reassurance to thousands of customers whose circumstances require them to use significant amounts of water for essential reasons. He added that extending financial assistance should help reduce pressure on vulnerable households facing rising bills.
Disability rights organisations also praised the reforms.
James Taylor, Director of Strategy at the disability charity Scope, said the changes are welcome because disabled households often face higher living costs, including increased water usage for hygiene and medical needs. He noted that some families have no choice but to use more water at home due to health conditions.
Financial support organisations have also responded positively.
Grace Brownfield, Head of Influencing and Communications at the Money Advice Trust, which runs National Debtline, said people with disabilities or long term health conditions are more exposed to essential living costs and debt. She described strengthening WaterSure as an important step in supporting households most in need.
She added that a significant proportion of people seeking debt advice are already behind on their water payments, highlighting the importance of continued improvements to support schemes.
The government said the reforms aim to ensure that households who require higher water usage for medical or family reasons are protected from unaffordable bills.
