Concerns are growing that more older people across Wales could struggle to afford basic water use in the coming years, as calls increase for a nationwide support scheme.

New figures from Independent Age suggest that 12% of pensioner households in Wales are already living in what is known as water poverty — defined as spending more than 3% of household income on water bills. That figure is expected to rise to 16% by 2029/30 if no action is taken, affecting more than 50,000 households.

The charity says rising costs are forcing some older people to make difficult choices, including cutting back on washing, limiting use of appliances, and even avoiding flushing toilets to save money.

In response, Independent Age has launched a campaign calling on the UK Government to introduce a national “social tariff” for water — a standardised system that would provide financial support to low-income households across England and Wales.

Currently, water companies operate their own support schemes, but campaigners say this has created a postcode lottery, where the level of help available depends on where someone lives. A national tariff, they argue, would ensure fairness and consistency.

The issue is part of a wider cost-of-living challenge. Recent polling suggests around one in five people across England and Wales are already reducing their water use due to cost, with many reporting impacts on their health and hygiene.

Joanna Elson, Chief Executive of Independent Age, said behind the statistics are real people struggling to cope.

She said: “We have heard from older people washing in sinks, letting dishes pile up over days, and avoiding flushing the toilet. This should not be happening. Water is not a luxury — it is a necessity.”

The call for reform follows recommendations from the Independent Water Commission, which previously suggested a national system should be introduced. However, proposals earlier this year stopped short of adopting that approach.

There are also broader concerns from consumer groups and regulators that water affordability could become a growing issue, particularly as infrastructure costs rise and are passed on to customers through bills. In Wales, where average incomes in some communities are lower and populations are ageing, the impact could be felt more sharply.

While some water companies in Wales already offer discounted tariffs and support schemes, charities argue these do not go far enough and are often not widely understood or accessed by those who need them most.

Campaigners say introducing a national social tariff could lift hundreds of thousands of people out of water poverty, providing long-term protection for vulnerable households.

For now, Independent Age is urging the public to back its petition, warning that without action, more people could be forced to make increasingly difficult choices over something as essential as water.