Water UK is the trade association representing all of the water and wastewater companies of the United Kingdom. It has 25 full members plus four associate members. [1] It was established in 1998. [2] The current Chief Executive is David Henderson who was appointed in February 2023. [3] The current Chair is Ruth Kelly who was appointed in March 2023. [4]
Water UK represents the collective interests of the UK water industry, engaging with government, regulators, and other stakeholders on policy, regulation, and long-term strategic issues affecting water and wastewater services. [5] It provides a forum for collaboration among water companies and acts as a central point of coordination on industry-wide challenges.
The organisation contributes to consultations and policy development relating to environmental protection, water resources, infrastructure investment, customer service standards, and public health. [6] It also promotes the sharing of best practice across the sector and communicates industry positions on legislative and regulatory proposals. [5]
Water UK is governed by a board comprising senior leaders from member companies, with overall strategic oversight provided by the Chair. [7] Day-to-day operations are led by the Chief Executive and executive leadership team. [7]
The organisation represents collective industry views and does not act on behalf of individual companies. [5]
Water UK’s full membership includes all major water and wastewater service providers operating across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. [1] Associate membership is open to organisations connected to the water sector, including suppliers and service providers. [1]
Membership enables companies to participate in policy forums, technical working groups, and industry initiatives coordinated by Water UK. [5]
Water UK’s work covers a range of policy areas, including: [6]
The organisation publishes consultation responses, industry briefings, and policy reports addressing these topics. [6]
Water UK engages with the public and media to provide information about the water industry and its role in delivering water and wastewater services. [8] It also supports industry-wide public information campaigns, including those focused on water efficiency and protecting sewer infrastructure. [9]
Water UK was established in 1998 following changes to the structure and regulation of the UK water industry, consolidating earlier representative bodies into a single organisation covering the UK water sector. [10] Since its formation, it has evolved alongside regulatory reforms and increasing environmental and resilience requirements placed on the industry. [11]