Who is exempt from hosepipe bans in the South?

The south of England is in a declared drought after one of the driest summers, with hosepipe bans affecting millions in Thames Valley, Wessex, Hampshire & Isle of Wight (and local bans in parts of Dorset).
Exemptions exist for people with medical or mobility needs, but rules vary by company: Thames and South West automatically exempt many blue-badge holders, South East asks you to apply, and Southern assesses cases individually.
No splashing allowed: paddling pools are generally banned from being filled by hose, and sports pitches may only be watered if actively being played on or for safety reasons.