It can’t have escaped your notice but this area is prone to power cuts – and anyone who is vulnerable due to age, health concerns or disabilities may be worried about the next one. The good news is that they can register as priority customers, and get extra support from power provider UK Power Networks and their partner companies, in case of an outage.

You can register if you or someone in your household:

• relies on medical equipment
• have refrigerated medicines
• have a serious or chronic illness
• have a disability
• is living with dementia
• are of pensionable age
• have children under five in your household
• have mental health difficulties

If you have been affected by life-changing events such as bereavement, relationship breakdown, job loss, recovery from hospital treatment or living independently for the first time, you can register to receive extra help on a temporary basis.

Support during a power cut:

• A priority number that you can call 24 hours a day
• Text and voice message alerts, letting you know when there will be a large power cut in your area
• Tailored support if needed such as home visits, hot meals, advice and keeping your friends and relatives updated
• Where possible - text and voice messages when there is severe weather
• In certain scenarios UKPN may also offer a free hotel overnight and transport to the hotel
• For complex power cuts, UKPN community welfare teams provide on-site support which includes hot drinks, hot meals, a Wi-Fi connection and charge points

Hit https://www.ukpowernetworks.co.uk/power-cut/priority-services/about-the-priority-services-register or call0800 169 9970 for more details.