UK water firms exempt benefits claimants from hosepipe bans

Households receiving benefits in England have been allowed to continue using hosepipes despite regional bans imposed by water companies such as Southern Water and Affinity Water. The exemption applies to customers on the WaterSure tariff, which caps water bills for low‑income households that meet specific criteria, including having three or more children in full‑time education or a resident with a medical condition. Over 300,000 people are now covered, saving roughly £325 a year each, while more than five million other customers must obey the bans introduced after three heatwaves reached 34 °C.

The policy has drawn criticism from Reform and Conservative MPs, who describe it as a "two‑tier" system that rewards welfare claimants while penalising full‑paying customers. Water companies say the exemption protects disabled and vulnerable users. Meanwhile, gardening experts advise the public on coping with the restrictions, recommending longer grass, reduced nitrogen fertiliser, drought‑resistant plants and rainwater harvesting to minimise water use during bans.