We could all benefit from a bit of extra help at some stage in our lives. This could be due to age, ill-health, disability, mental health problems, financial worries or even language barriers.

Over 100.000 customers we serve in the North West are now benefitting from additional free help and support having signed up to our free Priority Services Register.  You don’t even have to be the bill payer to benefit from such things as:

• a dedicated team on hand to listen and help
• you can nominate a carer, family member or friend to speak to us on your behalf
• have your bills sent to you in braille, large print or on coloured paper. You can even arrange for a ‘talking bill’
• knock and wait service, so if you tell us you have mobility needs, we’ll allow you extra time to answer the door
• protection from bogus callers, by adding a password to your account, to help keep you safe
• translation services
• notice of interruptions to your water supply
• support for customers with a medical need for water
• help if you’re struggling to pay your water bill
• bills sent to a relative, carer or friend to help you check them

So if you or someone you know lives in the North West and would appreciate a little bit of extra support, registering is simple, you can call us on 0345 672 2888 or visit our United Utilities website and complete our online form.

We also know that this is a difficult time for many people and you may be worried about your household bills. The good news is that United Utilities, has support available to help its customers who are having difficulties paying their water bill due to a change in circumstances.

Jane Haymes from United Utilities says: “If you’re one of our customers in the North West and your income has been affected by coronavirus please get in touch on 0800 072 6765 so we can talk through your options.

“For example, we can set up a payment plan to spread out the amount you owe over the remainder of the year.

“We also have a Payment Break scheme providing a payment holiday for up to three months, meaning you don’t have to pay anything right now or while you access alternative financial support.”

Being in debt can be stressful, which is why we will always encourage our customers to contact independent organisations to obtain free debt advice, such as StepChange, Payplan and Turn2Us.

Jane adds: “There are some great organisations providing the support you need to help you out of debt. We have details about these organisations on our website, and it’s worth completing the Turn2Us benefits calculator so you can check you’re not missing out on any welfare benefits you may be entitled to.”

For more information about how United Utilities can help with your water bill, together with details about organisations who offer free debt advice, visit the website.