Communities in Mid Sussex to benefit from a £50,000 fund

Charities in Mims Davies MP’s Mid Sussex constituency are being invited to apply for grants from a special Community Fund set up by South East Water, following the supply problems some customers experienced last December.

These water supply issues were related to prolonged cold weather and then rapid rise in temperatures affecting pipes both on South East Water’s network and in customers’ houses.

Over the space of just 24 hours the south east experienced a rapid rise in temperature of 20 degrees from minus seven to plus 13 which led to an outbreak of bursts and leaks on the pipe network that drained water supplies.

Those customers directly affected have been personally compensated, however recognising the wider impact on the community, the company has also set up a £50,000 community fund to help charities in the constituency.

Mims Davies, MP for Mid Sussex said: “I’d encourage local Mid Sussex charities to bid for a vital share of this new community fund provided by South East Water to make amends for such difficulties and I am grateful for this fund and opportunities it accords local organisations.

“This is a real great opportunity in tough times to get an extra funds boost to coffers that can be used to further support members of our wonderful local community and its brilliant charities and organisations here.”

Tanya Sephton, Customer Services Director at South East Water, said: “We know this was a very tough time for the whole community, especially as it happened during the festive season.

“The weather is outside of our control and when sudden, big changes in temperature happen, it can have a huge impact, causing leaks and bursts both on our network and on customers’ pipework. This is what happened in December.

“We take our role as a local responsible water company seriously and wanted to thank Mid Sussex residents for their understanding. This is a gesture which will have a long-term benefit for everyone and there’s no better way than to support the tireless work of the great causes which are right at the heart of the community. A big thank you to them all.”

Applications can be made at www.southeastwater.co.uk/midsussex

The closing date for applications is 5pm on 14 May.