Jess Brown-Fuller MP asks Southern Water to reassess its social tariffs to better support vulnerable customers

Jess Brown-Fuller MP has written to Southern Water CEO Lawrence Gosden to request a reassessment of Southern Water’s social tariff criteria, warning that it “no longer reflects the current economic reality facing many households”.

Customers are facing rapid water bill increases amidst an ongoing cost-of-living crisis. In Chichester, residents also deal with higher-than average house prices and rental costs, alongside extortionate energy bills.

Jess’ request follows previous conversations with Southern Water during which she raised concerns about rising water bills and the income threshold for bill relief.

In her letter, Jess said:

“Due to rapid bill increases, all Southern Water customers are now paying far more than they were 12 months ago. For many households, this represents an unaffordable and unsustainable situation that urgently needs addressing.”

“The current eligibility criteria may be excluding individuals and families who genuinely require support but fall marginally outside outdated thresholds.”

Jess also asked for reassurance that residents who are digitally excluded have means of applying for a discount that isn’t via the Southern Water website.

Jess' letter to Southern Water