Castle Point MP Rebecca Harris is encouraging people who may need extra support in a power cut to sign up to UK Power Networks’ free Priority Service Register.

At an event hosted by UK Power Networks in Parliament, Rebecca heard how those on the register will be offered extra help and support in the unlikely event of a power cut this winter. Those who signup can expect to receive:

•       A welcome pack with useful advice about preparing for a power cut. 

•       A priority phone number that you can call 24 hours a day and regular updates until your power is back on. 

•       Regular text message updates if you text ‘Power’ followed by your postcode to 80876. A home visit from our staff or through our charity partner, the British Red Cross. 

The Priority Services Register is designed to help people who rely on power for medical needs or who feel more at risk for other reasons, such as having a young baby or having an elderly relative in the house. Over recent years, UK Power Networks - and charity partners including the British Red Cross, Age UK, Royal Association for the Deaf and Carers Trust - have signed up over 500,000 people. 

At the moment, there are 3452 people on the register in Castle Point. Rebecca believes this could be even higher:

“I’m sure every one of us knows somebody who could benefit from being on UK Power Networks’ Priority Service Register, whether it be a friend, relative or neighbour. Power cuts are very rare, but I have recently been contacted by a number of constituents who have suffered power cuts in the borough so there’s no harm in being prepared. There are plenty of ways UK Power Networks can provide support to suit your needs, and it only takes five minutes to sign up. I would urge people who think they might be eligible to join the register to contact UK Power Networks.”

You can apply at www.ukpowernetworks.co.uk/priority, ring 0800 169 9970, or email [email protected].