Nearly 80 people in Hastings and St Leonards have attended a community drop-in event aimed at helping customers access support with their water bills.
Southern Water teams were at Ore Community Centre in Old London Road, Hastings, on Wednesday 16 September to answer questions about bills and check whether customers were eligible for financial help.
The event was the first in a series of bill clinics being held across the region.
Southern Water says dozens of those who attended were found to qualify for reduced-price tariffs.
Support available includes the company’s Essentials Tariff for customers on low incomes or benefits, offering discounts of at least 45 per cent and, in some cases, up to 90 per cent on bills.
Nicky Chitty, Southern Water’s affordability and vulnerability lead, said: “We know many people are struggling with the cost of living but they may not know they could be eligible for help. As well as our social tariffs, we also offer flexible payment plans and a hardship fund for those facing exceptional challenges. Whilst we were pleased to have helped many of our Hastings customers face-to-face I’d urge anyone worried about paying their bill to get in touch, because support is available – and we’re here to help."
Hastings Borough Council leader Councillor Glenn Haffenden and Councillor Jo Walker also attended the clinic and spoke with customers.
Councillor Haffenden said: "Today's event has shown just how important face-to-face support is for residents in Hastings. In just a couple of hours, more than 40 people came along seeking help with a wide range of issues, from bill support to concerns about drainage. Being able to sit down and speak to somebody in person is invaluable, as it's not always easy to resolve these matters over the phone or by email."
Southern Water is planning another public drop-in for Hastings customers on 4 November.
The “Your Water Matters” event will give residents the chance to speak directly with teams from across the company about bills and other water-related concerns.
To access support with your water bill, visit: What If I Can't Pay My Bill? - Southern Water
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