Proactive Bottled Water Initiative - Winter 2024

Q: Why have I received a e-voucher?

A: Your details are stored on our Priority Services Register and either you have signed up at some point or someone has signed up on your behalf - if you don't think this should be case or this is an error, please contact us using the details below these FAQs.

Q: Why is the e-voucher value £4

A: We looked at prices from different stores to find out how much bottled water usually costs, and we decided that £4 is the average amount for 6 x 2 litre bottles.

Q: Do I need to use the e-voucher?

A: Not at all but we would encourage you to use the e-voucher in case there is an interruption to your water supply during the winter months.

Q: Who are Prezzee?

A: Prezzee are a third party supplier we have collaborated with to deliver this initiative.

Q: Is it safe to click the links? Is Prezzee site safe?

A: Yes, 100%! Prezzee site won't ask for any personal details so you simply just need to activate a e-voucher for your preferred retailer. 

Q: Why has my neighbour received an e-voucher and I have not?

A: The e-voucher scheme is open to our Priority Services Register customers who opted into the initiative in 2023, and those who have registered to the PSR between 1st November 2023 and 31st October 2024.

Q: Are you planning to issue a voucher every year?

A: This is a pilot, we may look to offer a different service next year. 

Q: How long is the e-voucher valid for?

A: The e-voucher link is valid for 2 months from the date you received the email or text, if you've received a letter, the expiry date will be stated on your letter.

Q: Can I use this e-voucher in any store?

A: Unfortunately not, the participating retailers are: Aldi, ASDA, Marks & Spencer, Morrisons, Sainsbury’s, Tesco, Caffé Nero, Costa, Starbucks and Waitrose.

Q: Is the e-voucher restricted to certain brands?

A: The e-voucher can be used across all brands and all sizes within the participating retailers, the only restriction is that it can only be used to purchase still bottled water.

Q: Can the e-voucher be used to purchase anything else other than still bottled water?

A: No, the e-voucher can only be used to purchase still bottled water. The purpose of the initiative is to help reduce the impact of any disruptions to your water supply.

Q: Do I need to use the e-voucher in one go?

A: The e-voucher can be used multiple times until the full £4 is redeemed and can also be used as part payment.

Q: I’m unable to carry large bottles of water

A: There are no restrictions on the size of bottles. You can purchase 250ml or 5 litres, it really is down to personal preference. The e-voucher can also be used multiple times until the full value has been redeemed.

Q: Can someone else pick up the water for me?

A: Yes, definitely! Anyone can redeem the voucher at the participating retailers but the e-voucher can only be used up to the £4 limit has been redeemed.

Q: Can the e-voucher be used on home deliveries?

A: No, unfortunately the e-voucher can only be used in-store.

Q: Is the bottled water to be specifically used for drinking? 

A: The water can be used for anything you wish; drinking, medication, washing, cleaning and even clearing the toilet. It's just there to support you should there be a disruption to your water supply.

Q: Can I print the e-voucher instead of using on my mobile?

A: Definitely! The participating retailers are happy to accept the e-voucher digitally or as a paper copy.

Q: Can I change retailer?

A: Unfortunately, once the retailer has been selected we are unable to change the e-voucher to another retailer.

Q: Why is the e-voucher only valid for 2 months?

A: This is to encourage everyone to be prepared for the winter months. In the unlikely event of a disruption to your water supply, shops tend to run out quickly of water.

Q: What if I misplace the e-voucher by accident?

A: We would recommend you keep the e-voucher safe and treat the e-voucher like cash as we cannot issue another one. Top Tip: Save the voucher to your Apple/Google wallet or even screenshot the voucher so it saves to your phone.

Q: There are no retailers beside me - what should I do?

A: We're sorry to hear that. Friends and family are welcome to redeem the e-voucher on your behalf. If this still isn't suitable, contact us on your preferred method below and we'll be happy to help.

Q: Morrisons states £5 is the minimum amount required to activate an e-voucher, however my £4 bottled water e-voucher is under this value. How do I redeem?

A: Don’t worry, you can still redeem as normal. To support our bottled water initiative, Morrisons have agreed to lower the £5 minimum spend and honour the £4 e-voucher in-store, against the purchase of bottled water. The terms and conditions on the Morrisons website will be updated in due course to reflect this. However, you can start using your e-voucher straight away.

Q: I'm not great with technology

Check out the quick video on this page showing you, step by step, how to redeem the voucher. If you still don't feel comfortable, our advisors will be more than happy to talk you though how to redeem the card. It really is very simple and just a couple of clicks but please don't hesitate to contact us as we're happy to support you. 

Q: Why am I getting an Error page?

It sounds like there is an issue with your e-voucher, please contact us using the contact details under the FAQ section.

Q: Are you expecting their to be a disruption to my water supply?

A: Definitely not but water supply interruptions can cause significant inconvenience and are more likely during the winter months.

Q: How is it best to store the water?

A: Water should be stored in a cool, dark place.

Q: What do I do with any water I don’t use?

A: You can keep hold of the water until the expiry date or use as you see fit. 

Q: If the water goes out of date is it still safe to use?

A: We would recommend you follow the manufacturers expiry date and use any expired water on plants or in the garden - don't forget to recycle bottles after use.

Q: Is it safe to feed my baby with bottled water?

It's a common belief that bottled water isn't suitable for making baby formula, but it can actually be used safely. Just make sure the bottled water you choose has sodium levels below 200 mg/L and sulphate levels below 250 mg/L, as shown on the label. Most bottled water available in the UK meets these guidelines, so you can use it with confidence. However, should you have any concerns or would like further guidance on the matter, we would always recommend you contact your health visitor.

Q: Is it safe to boil bottled water before mixing with baby formula?

A: The NHS generally advises against this practice because it can concentrate sodium and sulphate levels, as some water is lost as steam. However, this effect is usually minimal. As long as the sodium and sulphate levels are not close to the upper limits of 200 mg/L and 250 mg/L, it shouldn't be a concern. For more detailed advice, we would encourage you to speak with your health visitor.  Click here for the NHS Guide to Bottle Feeding.