join our rain campaign - 01-01-2009
Changes are planned for the way water companies charge non-domestic customers, including Scout Groups, for the disposal of rainwater.
In the past, organisations like Scout Groups and places of worship have not been charged for the surface water which runs into sewers.
The changes are not universal but will affect Scout Groups who own or lease their own Meeting Place and who have water services supplied by United Utilities, Yorkshire Water, Northumbrian Water or Severn Trent.
The likely costs?
An average Scout Meeting Place with associated parking will most likely be subjected to an increase in costs of around £400 a year.
We think this change is unfair. If all water companies across the UK (with the exception of Scotland, which has separate rules) applied these charges then the cost to Scouting each year could be around £1.5m.
Can we stop this change?
Put simply, Yes.
First check your water company. Check if your Group gets its water services from United Utilities, Yorkshire Water, Northumbrian Water or Severn Trent. These are the companies who are looking to implement these changes. If your Group owns your Meeting Place you could be liable for these costs.
If your water is supplied by one of these companies write to your local MP to demonstrate your concern about these new charges. You can do this right here and right now online. Just fill in a few details and we can generate an email from yourself direct to your MP opposing these changes.*
You can also sign the Downing Street petition, registering your concern about the changes.
The Scout Association will, of course, lobby central government over this matter, but it is your support that will count.
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