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If you or someone you’re caring for has Alzheimer’s or dementia, the Priority Services Register (PSR) could give you extra support with your energy needs.

“The Priority Services Register can give you peace of mind, knowing that there’s extra help available, for example if there’s a power cut or interruption to the water supply. You can also get help with things like reading the gas or electricity meter”, says Kelly Chable, Home Energy Advisor at ADSS.

5 ways the Priority Services Register can help you

Being on the Priority Services Register could give you practical help in a number of ways. Here’s 5 benefits your energy supplier could offer:

1. Support and information during power cuts

You can contact your electricity supplier 24/7 for priority updates if there’s a power cut. If the power is being cut off because of essential maintenance work, you’ll get advanced warning so you can plan ahead.

2. Priority support in an emergency

Your energy supplier may be able to provide extra help in an emergency. That could include providing bottled water or a portable generator to provide electricity.

3. 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.

4. Support from 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.

5. 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 for the Priority Services Register?

So, who’s eligible to be on the Priority Services Register? “If you have Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia or memory impairment, you can go on the Register,” says Kelly. “You can also register if you have any sensory impairment, including loss of smell, taste, hearing or sight.”

You can also register if you:

1. Need electricity for medical equipment, like a Lifeline personal alarm or a stairlift
2. Need electricity to keep medicines cold
3. Depend on water because of problems with incontinence or certain skin conditions

Find out more about who’s eligible for the Priority Services Register.

How do I join the Priority Services Register?

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

Kelly is also happy to help people register, as well as giving advice on all aspects of energy use in the home. “Our advice includes ways of staying warm in winter, saving energy and keeping safe, for example by providing carbon monoxide detectors,” she says. “If you’re in need of guidance, or think you might be eligible for the Priority Services Register, please get in touch.”

You can contact Kelly here.