FWR was created in 1989 as part of the privatisation of the Water Research Centre.
One function was to facilitate the connection between FWR members, the Water Companies and the newly created WRc Plc for the duration of a five-year Core Research Programme.
In 2001 FWR became a registered charity, ceased funding of research projects and concentrated on an Educational and Knowledge Transfer role.
The FWR mission is to advance the education of the public in science, engineering and management of water through specialist forums, reviews of current knowledge, publishing and information support.
Meetings of the Wastewater Innovation Forum include topical presentations on developments in water and the environment which are published on the FWR website.