We work to alleviate water poverty overseas, providing access to safe water and sanitation for some of the 664 million people that live without it. We support marginalised communities to gain access to clean drinking water, toilets and good hygiene, and use this access as a gateway to further development. In the UK, we work to change public behaviour away from practices, processes and products that negatively impact global water resources.
FRANK Water was established in 2005 after Founder, Katie Alcott, contracted dysentery from drinking dirty water during her time spent teaching in India. She recovered and decided to do something to help those people that had no choice but to drink contaminated water every day. After three years of studying at University in Bristol, Katie set up FRANK Water.
Our vision is of a water secure world
FRANK Water’s work contributes towards Sustainable Development Goal 6 – providing access to safe water and sanitation for all by 2030. We work with NGO partners to reach the most remote villages, those that may have been left behind by progress.
In the UK, we encourage people to consume water sustainably – wherever they are. Our UK Refill Service tours the country, encouraging the general public to refill with tap water instead of buying bottled water. We work with restaurants and bars to make it easier for diners to choose tap water over less sustainable drinks. Our Pledge to Refill campaign calls on people to make their pledge to commit to carrying a refillable bottle.
Based in Bristol, FRANK Water has benefitted from the city’s support since day one. Bristol’s progressive approach to sustainability encourages and supports organisations based in the city to follow suit. FRANK Water’s decision to stop selling bottled water in single-use plastic inspired several large food businesses to take their own steps to reduce their environmental impact.
Milestones
2005 – FRANK Water is founded by Katie Alcott
2006 – FRANK Water funds its first water project in India
2010 – FRANK Water launches the ‘Turn me on’ campaign to bring back water fountains across Bristol.
2010 – FRANK Water’s Refill Service is launched at UK music festivals.
2017 – FRANK Water launches #PledgeToRefill & expands its programme to start work in Nepal
2018 – FRANK Water Founder, Katie Alcott awarded Honorary Doctor of Law by University of Bristol
2019 – FRANK Water Founder Katie Alcott is awarded an MBE
2019 – FRANK Water reaches more than 403,000 people in 520 communities with safe water, sanitation, and hygiene.
