NI Water has welcomed older residents to its Belfast Wastewater Heritage Centre as part of Positive Ageing Month, offering visitors a behind-the-scenes look at the essential wastewater services that support communities every day.

Led by NI Water Education Officer Anna Killen, the event explored Belfast’s pioneering Victorian sewerage system and the modern processes used to collect, treat and safely return wastewater to the environment today. 

The session highlighted simple steps everyone can take to protect NI Water’s network and the environment, including flushing only the three Ps - pee, poo and paper - and allowing fats, oils and grease to cool before placing them in the bin rather than pouring them down the sink. Guests also heard how avoiding blockages and using water wisely can help keep services running efficiently for customers.

NI Water education officer Anna Killen said: “Positive Ageing Month is a wonderful opportunity to bring people together, share useful information and celebrate the contribution older people make to our communities.

“We were delighted to welcome visitors to our Belfast Wastewater Heritage Centre and show them the work that goes on behind the scenes to treat wastewater and protect the environment. It was also an important opportunity to explain the practical support available through NI Water’s Customer Care Register, particularly as we approach the colder winter months.”

As winter approaches, Anna also encouraged the visitors to join NI Water’s free Customer Care Register and also their free text alert service.

NI Water’s free Customer Care Register offers extra support to older customers and anyone with a disability, health condition, communication need or other circumstances requiring assistance. Services can include a password scheme, doorstep assistance, accessible information and contact through a nominated carer or relative. Registered customers can receive practical help during supply interruptions, including priority bottled water where needed, as well as a prioritised response to flooding. To join, visit www.niwater.com or call Waterline on 03457 440088.

NI Water also offers a free text alert service which helps customers stay informed about planned and emergency interruptions to their water supply. By signing up, customers can receive timely updates straight to their mobile phone, including details of any disruption, expected restoration times and when supplies are back to normal.

For further information on NI Water’s customer care register, go to Customer Care Register - Northern Ireland Water

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Media enquiries to the NI Water Press Office via email to press.office@niwater.com