This Debt Awareness Week, Northumbrian Water is encouraging its customers to open up about their money worries and to get the help they need.
Although lots of families across the North East are feeling the squeeze of rising living costs, many still find talking about money a difficult subject.
Debt Awareness Week, which begins on Monday (21 March), was launched by Northumbrian Water’s debt charity partner, StepChange, in 2014. Its aim is to help make people feel more comfortable talking about their financial situation and asking for support when they need it.
Northumbrian Water is encouraging anyone who might be struggling financially, to take action this week, and to get in touch with its team of experts. The company is committed to helping its customers by offering a wide range of financial support.
Working in partnership with StepChange - who provide free, confidential, and expert debt advice - the water firm can help reduce arrears and re-schedule payments to ease debt problems. Those on pension credit or with a household income of less than £16,480 may even be eligible for a discount of up to 50% on their bill.
Mark Wilkinson, Northumbrian Water’s Head of Income, said: “Money worries aren’t just a financial problem, they can cause all sorts of other issues and really affect people’s mental health. Yet talking about money is still viewed as a taboo topic.
“Debt awareness week is a great week to start the conversation, but people should know they can contact us at any time if they have any concerns about money whatsoever. No one should ever feel ashamed or embarrassed to talk about their financial problems, especially given the rising cost of living, and we want to reassure our customers we’re here for them.”
For more information about the help and support available, customers can visit www.nwl.co.uk/supportplus or www.stepchange.org, or contact Northumbrian Water on Facebook, Twitter @nwater_care or by calling 0345 733 5566.