Event: All‑Party Parliamentary Water Group (APPG Water) – Social Tariffs Parliamentary Session

Date: March 2024

Location: UK Parliament, Westminster (Hybrid session)

Type of CPD: Policy engagement / customer affordability / regulatory insight

Duration: 1–2 hours (plus preparation and follow‑up)

Summary of the Event

I attended the March 2024 meeting of the All‑Party Parliamentary Water Group (APPG Water), which focused on the future of social tariffs in the water sector and the need for a more consistent, fair and accessible approach to supporting customers in vulnerable circumstances.

The session brought together MPs, peers, Ofwat, Defra officials, water companies, consumer bodies, charities and industry stakeholders. Discussions centred on affordability challenges, the cost‑of‑living context, regional disparities in tariff schemes, and the potential for a national social tariff framework.

The meeting provided a valuable opportunity to understand how affordability policy intersects with wider sector priorities, including environmental performance, investment expectations and public trust.

Key Themes Covered

• Affordability and customer vulnerability Rising household pressures, eligibility criteria and the need for consistent support.
• Regional variation in social tariffs Differences in scheme design, funding mechanisms and customer outcomes.
• Potential for a national social tariff Legislative considerations, funding models and regulatory implications.
• Customer trust and transparency The importance of clear communication, fairness and evidence‑based decision‑making.
• Interaction with PR24 and long‑term planning Balancing affordability with environmental investment and performance commitments.
• Innovation and data‑driven support Opportunities to use real‑time data and digital tools to identify and support vulnerable customers.