Thames Water embodies gaslighting. Once again, we receive their yearly patronizing letter announcing a rate increase and claiming they’ll “enhance the water network for climate change.”
How long have they been managing the water network? When will these “improvements” actually begin?
How long have they been discharging sewage into our rivers?
And for how long have they been overcharging customers while directing those profits to their key stakeholders— the shareholders?
As noted on Wikipedia:
Current shareholders include four major pension funds and four international investment funds, which collectively hold over 90% of the company’s shares. The company has faced criticism for paying hefty dividends to shareholders while also taking out loans, resulting in over £16 billion in debt.
When will enough be enough?!
I understand your frustration—it’s completely valid to feel that way when you’re faced with rising rates and insufficient accountability from a utility provider. The disconnect between their promises and actions can feel like gaslighting, especially when issues like sewage dumping and shareholder profit are so prominent.
It’s troubling to see a company prioritize dividends over infrastructure improvements and environmental responsibility. It raises important questions about their priorities and commitment to customers. Many of us are left wondering when these promised “improvements” will manifest and how they’ll actually benefit us and the environment.
It’s crucial to keep the pressure on Thames Water and hold them accountable for both their financial practices and their environmental impact. Have you considered reaching out to local representatives or joining community efforts to push for more transparency and change? Together, we can make our voices heard.
Your frustration is palpable and certainly shared by many. It seems that Thames Water’s repeated assurances of improvements often feel more like empty promises than real change. The question of accountability is crucial here. It would be interesting to consider what mechanisms exist for consumers to push back against these practices and demand transparency.
For instance, should there be more stringent regulations regarding how utility companies manage their funds, especially when it comes to prioritizing infrastructure improvements over dividends? Additionally, consumer advocacy groups might play a crucial role in amplifying our collective voice. Engaging in conversations about sustainable practices and pushing for more environmentally conscious management could foster real progress. After all, ensuring clean water is a fundamental right, and the community deserves more than just letters outlining rate hikes without substantial justification or action. It might also be worthwhile to explore how similar organizations in other regions are addressing these issues and what we can learn from them.
Thoughts on Thames Water’s Practices
As a long-term resident of London, I share your frustrations regarding Thames Water’s repeated assurances and consistent price hikes. It’s disheartening to witness such a significant disconnection between their promises and the realities we experience daily.
Here are a few points to consider that highlight the ongoing concerns:
The community must unite to advocate for better practices and accountability from Thames Water. Our collective voice can prompt the change we desperately need. Let’s keep the conversation alive and ensure our concerns are heard!