Lack of Clarity on Hosepipe Restrictions for Disabled People

5.02.37pm BST (GMT +0100) Thu 3rd Aug 2006

"It is important that we have parity"

KCC Lib Dem Councillors have received a number of queries from people with disability or mobility problems, who want to know if they are physically incapable of lifting a watering can they have dispensation to use a hosepipe to water their gardens.

The Lib Dem Group contacted the 3 water companies who serve the people of Kent and have discovered that one of the Water Companies interprets the Water Industry regulations differently - to the potential disadvantage of their customers with disability or mobility problems.

Southern Water makes no exemptions for domestic customers. The company suggests that should the elderly or people with disabilities wish to water their garden/plants, they ask a relative/friend/neighbour to help out.

Mid Kent Water customers with mobility or disability problems can apply to be registered, which if successful will enable the use of hose. A completed application form along with a letter advising of disability is required to be considered by the company.

South East Water customers with mobility or disability problems can write to South East Waters Headquarters and request dispensation to use a hosepipe. All requests are dealt with on a case by case or on an individual basis.

"It is very important during this unprecedented dry period that we all conserve water whenever we can" said Councillor Margaret Featherstone. "It is also important that we have parity to enable people with disability or mobility problems to apply for hosepipe restriction dispensation and I would urge Southern Water to reconsider their position".

Your water bill will state which company supplies your water and their contact details. If you have disability or mobility problems and are a Mid Kent or South East Water customer, you can apply for a hosepipe restriction dispensation, if you are a Southern Water customer you cannot. All water companies will be able to offer advice on how to conserve water.