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Stop the Rain Tax
Introduction
Changes are planned for the way water companies charge non-domestic customers, including Scout Groups, for the disposal of rainwater. In the past, organisations such as Scout Groups and sports halls have not been charged for the surface water which runs into sewers from their buildings. In 2003 the Water Services Regulation Authority (OFWAT) decided that this exemption should end and has given the Water Companies until 2010 to start charging all users for the disposal of water from their properties through public sewers in England and Wales.
To date only a limited number of the ten water companies serving English regions and Wales have already introduced the charge- sometimes labelled as 'surface area' costs, 'sewerage costs' or 'grey water disposal' costs on water bills. However, all are at present required to introduce these costs within the next year. Furthermore those who have sought to introduce exemptions for charities and community organisations have been refused permission by OFWAT.
The changes to water charging will affect all charities, religious and community organisations that own or lease their meeting place. Thus, for the 4,500 Scout meeting places in England and Wales, the implications on their incomes could be substantial; an average Scout meeting place with associated parking will most likely be subjected to an increase in costs of around £400 a year. Initial estimates suggest that the total cost to the Scout Movement each year could be around £1.5m.
To help us campaign effectively against the decision to charge Scout meeting places for their surface area drainage requirements we need to gather information about the impact these water charges are going to have on our Members. By filling out this short survey and encouraging other Scout Groups within your local area to do so too we can compile evidence to support our campaign.
The Scout Association
Public Affairs Team November 2008
Note: These charges will affect Groups in England and Wales only as Scotland and Northern Ireland have their own separate rules regarding water charges.
