Richmond Council is backing a new scheme to help people save money on their water bills by cutting out the paperwork and getting support straight to those who need it.

From April, more than 500 eligible low-income Richmond households will be automatically signed up for Thames Water's WaterHelp discount, saving hundreds of pounds a year – with no need to apply or fill in forms.

There are 531 people eligible for a social tariff across Richmond, who will save, on average, £398 annually.

The council has teamed up with Thames Water and Policy in Practice to safely match local data with water accounts, identifying who's eligible and getting them onto the reduced social tariff. 

Richmond Council Leader, Councillor Gareth Roberts said: "At Richmond, we are focused on practical solutions that directly benefit our residents, especially in difficult times.

"We're already providing crucial support with initiatives like free school uniforms, energy vouchers, and council tax relief.

"Now, through this collaboration, we are taking it a step further to ensure even more financial help reaches those who need it most, quickly and simply.

"This is about being proactive and finding innovative ways to make a positive impact."

Richmond is one of only two boroughs, alongside Wandsworth, participating in the pilot scheme, which could now be rolled out across London.