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If you or someone you’re caring for with Alzheimer’s or dementia needs a little extra support to manage energy services, the Priority Services Register (PSR) could help.

The Priority Services Register is a free service which provides extra advice and support with energy services, including when there’s an interruption to your supply of electricity, gas or water.

It’s there to provide help for customers with extra communication, access or safety needs. That means people who are vulnerable because they are older, or because of an illness or disability.

7 ways the Priority Services Register can help you

Being on the Priority Services Register can help in a number of different ways. Here’s a list of 7 benefits your supplier could offer:

1. Advance notice of planned power cuts

That could be crucial for example if you rely on electricity to run medical equipment or keep medicines cold in the fridge. You can also get priority updates from your supplier about when the supply will be turned back on.

2. Priority support in an emergency

If you’re on the Priority Services Register, your supplier will aim to provide extra help to keep you warm and safe during unplanned outages. That could include cookers or heaters, or even moving you into alternative accommodation.

3. Connection to local emergency services

Electricity, gas and water companies work with local authorities, emergency services and organisations like the British Red Cross to provide extra support for people on the Priority Services Register.

4. Communication that matches your needs

Your energy supplier can send your bills and other information in a format that suits your need, e.g. large print, Braille, textphone, audio or in languages other than English.

5. Nominee scheme

The nominee scheme means you can name a trusted family member or friend to deal with bills and other communication from your energy supplier for you.

6. Meter reading services

If you’re finding it difficult to read your meter, your energy supplier can send someone round to do it for you. Or you could ask for a smart meter to be fitted. These send readings automatically to your supplier so you don’t have to worry about checking the meter any more.

Want to know more about smart meters? Find out more from Smart Energy GB.

7. Feel safe and secure

If you’re on the Priority Services Register, you can set a password to use when your energy supplier phones you, or if they come to your house, for example to read the meter.

Your energy supplier will be able to tell you exactly which benefits they offer.

Am I eligible to join the Priority Services Register?

You could be eligible to go on the Priority Services Register if you:

1. Are claiming your pension
2. Have a disability or a long-term medical condition
3. Are deaf or hard of hearing
4. Are blind or visually impaired
5. Rely on medical equipment that needs electricity
6. Have depression, anxiety or another mental health condition
7. Temporarily need extra support

Your energy supplier will be able to tell you if you qualify for the Priority Services Register.

How to register for the Priority Services Register

Signing up for the Priority Services Register is free and straightforward. If you’re a Southern Gas Customer, contact SGN direct. If your energy comes from a different supplier, you can find out how to register here.