Water Firms Slammed, Forced to Refund £114 Million to Customers
Water companies across England and Wales have been ordered to cough up £114 million in refunds after missing key performance targets, watchdog Ofwat revealed. The major failings included tackling leakages, ensuring reliable water supply, and reducing pollution.
Ofwat blasted the sector’s poor showing following a thorough review. The regulator mandated hefty paybacks via lower water bills, hitting households’ wallets in a bid to hold firms to account.
No Winners: All Water Companies Fail to Impress
- Seven companies — Dwr Cymru, Southern, Thames, Anglian, bristol/" title="Bristol" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Bristol, South East, and Yorkshire Water — got slammed into the lowest “lagging” category.
- The remaining ten only achieved “average” status.
- Shockingly, none were deemed “leading” on performance.
Ofwat applies tough targets set back in 2019 for a five-year period. Firms that fall short face restrictions on how much they can charge customers. Chief Exec David Black tweeted: “While bill reductions will be welcome, it’s very disappointing news for those wanting to see the sector improve.”
UK Staff Call in Sick Like Never Before
Meanwhile, a new report from the CIPD shows UK workers are taking more sick days than in a decade — averaging 7.8 days per year, up from 5.8 pre-pandemic. Stress, lingering Covid symptoms, and the ongoing cost-of-living crisis are dragging down wellbeing nationwide.
The CIPD voiced concern over the spike in absences, citing “profound impacts” on employee health. The study, covering 6.5 million workers across 900-plus organisations, highlights serious challenges for businesses trying to keep staff on the clock.
Chaos at Gatwick: Flights Cancelled Amid Sickness Crisis
Gatwick Airport is axing around 82 flights this week due to a sick-out among air traffic controllers. With 30% of controllers off work thanks to Covid and short-term illness, the airport faces serious disruption.
CEO Stewart Wingate slammed the “frustrating” situation at the air traffic control centre. The worst day is Friday, September 29, with 33 departures cancelled — but Tuesday and Saturday should escape disruption. The affected controllers are employed by Nats, who manage the schedules.
