We are frequently being told there is nothing we can do to protect ourselves, or vulnerable family members, from the energy price crisis.

Government payments are mitigating some of the impacts of higher prices – but there are still other options to consider that can leave you in a better position.

We will talk about the value of switching suppliers, installing ‘smart meters’, and other options later in the week.

Today, it is important to make everyone aware of the value of signing up to a Priority Service Register (PSR) if you, or family members, fulfil the relevant criteria.

Below are key things you need to know if you are to take advantage of this option.

The Priority Services Register is a free support service from both energy suppliers and network operators that makes sure that extra help is available to people in vulnerable situations.

Check if you are eligible.

You may be eligible to sign up if you:

• have reached your state pension age
• are disabled or have a long-term medical condition
• are recovering from an injury
• have a hearing or sight condition
• have a mental health condition
• are pregnant or have young children
• have extra communication needs (such as if you don’t speak or read English well)
• need to use medical equipment that requires a power supply
• have poor or no sense of smell
• would struggle to answer the door or get help in an emergency.

You might still be able to register for other reasons if your situation isn’t listed. For example, if you need short-term support after a stay in hospital.

How to register.

Both Energy suppliers and Network operators keep Priority Services Registers. If you think you should be added to either you need to contact your energy supplier or network operator.

Give them your contact details and as much information as you can about your needs.

Your supplier can pass your details to your network operator to add you to their register too. It’s a good idea to ask them to do this if you rely on your energy supply for medical reasons.

If you have a different supplier for your gas and electricity, you need to contact them both.

You’ll need to register again with any new supplier if you switch supplier.

 

Help you can get.

This can include the following:

• Advance notice of planned power cuts. If you rely on your energy supply for medical reasons your network operator can tell you about planned power cuts. For example, when they plan engineering work.
• Priority support in an emergency. Network operators could provide heating and cooking facilities if you are cut off supply.
• Identification and password scheme. This could include arranging a password or agreed on picture cards if callers need to visit or contact you. This way you can feel confident they are genuine.
• Nominee scheme. You can nominate someone to receive communications and bills from your supplier. For example, a family member, carer or someone you trust.
• Help with prepayment meter access. For example, moving a meter if you can’t safely get to it to top up.
• Regular meter reading services. For example, if nobody can read your meter.
• Accessible information. For example, account info and bills in large print or braille.

Suppliers and Network operators could offer other support services. Ask them how they can help you.

 

Similar support services.

Suppliers can offer free gas safety checks every 12 months. You can request a safety check if you get a means-tested benefit and either:

• live with a child under five years old
• live alone or with others and have reached state pension age
• live alone or with others and are disabled or chronically ill
• live with others who have reached state pension age or are disabled, chronically ill or under 18 years old.

Landlords are normally responsible for keeping your gas appliances safe if you don’t own your own home. Further information about landlord obligations is listed on the Health and Safety Executive website.

Free similar services to the Priority Services Register are available in the water, telecoms and public transport sectors. Ask your providers about them.

 

The information above is taken from the website of the Office of Gas and Electricity Markets (Ofgem). For more information visit: https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/get-help-your-supplier-priority-services-register .

For specific information about signing up to the local network operator’s PSR (National Grid – formerly Western Power Distribution) call Coventry Citizens Advice’s ‘Power Up’ energy advice team on 02476 253190 or email us at nationalgrid@coventrycab.org.uk .

Make sure vulnerable family members are protected this winter.

Ends.