Water UK

Water shortage

08/11/04

The great majority of people in Britain drink much less water than they think they should, according to a MORI survey published today (8 November).

More than three quarters of us believe that good hydration is important to reduce the risk of kidney damage, and many people understand at least some of the many health benefits associated with drinking sufficient water.

Yet we drink on average under 4 glasses a day – compared to the 6.5 glasses we think we need.

Recent medical research points to widespread health risks associated with dehydration – including illnesses such as cancer and coronary heart disease, and many conditions associated with the elderly.

But among the over–55s the MORI findings point to even lower consumption - averaging just over 3 glasses a day – around half the amount this group believes it should drink.

Hydration gap

For the water industry, closing the hydration gap and ensuring better public access to some of the world’s best tap water is a key challenge and critical to improving the nation’s health.

Water UK Chief Executive Pamela Taylor said:

"From now on, drinking water for health as well as refreshment should be part of the help-yourself revolution that’s giving everyone the potential of a better life."

Significantly, those who understand more about the health benefits associated with good hydration tend to drink more – and this is likely to be the young, with twice as many 16-34 year olds drinking at least 5 glasses a day compared to those aged 55 and over.

Ends

For more information please contact:

Water UK

Barrie Clarke, Director of Communication
020 7344 1804 or
Nick Ellins, Policy and Planning Advser
020 7344 1810.

MORI
Marilyn Reid, Research Director, 020 7347 3000

Notes for editors

1 Water UK represents all the UK water service providers at national and European level.

2 In September 2004 MORI conducted research among consumers into the water drinking habits and perceptions of the nation. A set of questions, originally asked in Spring 2003, were put to a representative sample of 1,001 members of the British public about their behaviour and attitudes concerning the drinking of water.

Survey Findings

3. Tap water in England and Wales is 99.88% compliant with international quality standards regulated here by the independent Drinking Water Inspectorate.

4. Fresh tap water can cost around 1,000 times less than its bottled equivalent and is available in almost every home. Whilst 82% of respondents in the MORI survey mentioned at least one positive aspect about drinking tap water, just 14% think drinking it is ‘cool or trendy’.

5. To promote greater awareness and stimulate research, Water UK has established the Water for Health Alliance. This has broad support among professionals who understand the relationship between water services and public health. The Alliance works closely with government and health authorities to influence policy. www.waterforhealth.org.uk