Northumbrian Water is committing to eradicate water poverty in their supply area by 2030 by 2030.

The water company believes that there are currently 370,000 households in their operating areas that are in water poverty, and are determined to eradicate it from their supply area by 2030.

Whilst water bills are a comparatively small part of total household costs, Northumbrian Water said it is determined to do everything it can to help its customers.

Water poverty is defined as where customers spend more than 3% of their income on their water bill after housing costs.

A report released by the Joseph Rowntree Foundation on UK poverty, revealed that 14.3 million people are living in poverty and the most common types of debt for those with low incomes are water bills and Council Tax. These are followed by being behind with rent and other utility bills.

The company, which provides water services to 2.7 million people across the north east, is committing to eradicate all water poverty by 2030 but expect to make quick progress, with two thirds of these customers out of water poverty by 2025.

Customer Director for Northumbrian Water, Claire Sharp said:

"Water services should be affordable for all of our customers whatever their circumstances and we're committed to making this happen.

"Making sure bills are affordable for all of our customers is our industry leading aspiration and our ambitious aim to eradicate water poverty by 2030 is a powerful example of this, particularly given the levels of unemployment, welfare benefits receipt and income deprivation that we have in our regions.

"We understand that a household's finances can go up and down and that some of our customers will face difficulties according to their personal circumstances and at different stages of their life.

"By making sure that our services are fully inclusive for all of our customers - whatever their circumstances we can leave a lasting legacy through protecting and enhancing our environment and communities."

A variety of services are available to help the water company’s customers in need of extra support. Recognising that given the relatively low cost of water bills customers in water poverty are likely to face greater financial challenges, the company works with StepChange Debt Charity to offer all-round support - not just lifting them out of water poverty but also finding solutions to overcome the challenges of debt.

There are multiple tariffs available for customers who are struggling to pay their bills. Customers whose household income is less than £16,105 and water bill is more than 3% of household income after rent or mortgage payments, you may be eligible for a reduction on their water bill by up to 50%.

Customers with a medical condition that involves high water use or have three or more children under the age of 19 may also qualify for the WaterSure scheme which will cap the amount of their annual water bill.