Mike Penning urges vulnerable residents to sign up for power cut support
8th February 2011
Mike Penning MP has urged Dacorum residents who are vulnerable, or who rely on electricity for medical equipment, to sign up to a special register of those that need additional support and assistance in the event of a power cut.
The Priority Services Register is a free service that allows people who are chronically sick, disabled, or rely on electrical medical equipment to register for help in case of a power cut. The Register is run by UK Power Networks, which operates the electricity distribution network in London, the South East and East of England.
In the event of a power cut, UK Power Networks will attempt to contact customers in the area who are on this register. If there is a widespread fault they won’t be able to restore supply to people on the register more quickly, but they will be able to offer additional help and support where possible.
Hemel Hempstead MP, Mike Penning said: “A power cut is always difficult, particularly for the people it affects but it can be especially worrying for people who are vulnerable, reliant on electricity for medical equipment, or who have other special needs. That’s why I urge anyone who thinks they might be eligible to sign up to UK Power Networks’ Priority Services Register so that their needs are known about.”
Basil Scarsella, Chief Executive of UK Power Networks said: “We realise how difficult it is to be without power and work hard to keep the lights on. But if there is a power cut, it helps us to know where our vulnerable customers are so that we can offer them additional support and help.”
The Priority Services register is open to all local residents who are dependent on medical equipment, chronically sick, disabled, or for other who think that they may have a special case that UK Power Networks should consider. Anyone who thinks they may be eligible should call 0800 169 9970 and leave their details. They will be called back as soon as possible.
