Putting Your Elderly Relatives First: A Guide to the Priority Services Register (PSR)

• Priority Assistance: Ensures priority support during power or gas supply interruptions.
• Alternative Heating and Cooking Arrangements: Provides additional support or necessary equipment during prolonged outages.
• Advanced Notifications: Offers advance warning of scheduled maintenance or planned service disruptions.
• Accessible Communication: Delivers information in formats that cater to various needs, including large print or Braille.

Eligibility for the PSR varies depending on the energy network, but generally, individuals who meet one or more of the following criteria can register:

• Age: Pensionable age.
• Disability or Chronic Illness: Includes physical disabilities, long-term illnesses, or mental health conditions.
• Sensory Impairments: Deafness, hard of hearing, blindness, or partial sight.
• Medical Equipment Dependence: Reliance on medical devices powered by electricity or water.
• Communication Needs: Difficulties in communication or language barriers.
• Vulnerable Situations: Temporary or ongoing vulnerabilities, such as living with young children under five, experiencing an accident, being a carer

As a carent supporting an elderly parent, registering them (and potentially yourself) for the PSR can provide numerous benefits:

• Priority Help During Emergencies: Receive prioritised assistance during prolonged power or gas outages.
• Alternative Facilities: Access to heating and cooking alternatives ensures your loved ones remain comfortable.
• Guidance and Support Services: Onward referral to other services according to individual needs
• Peace of Mind: Knowing that additional support is readily available in emergencies reduces stress and anxiety.

Registering for the PSR offers several critical advantages:

1. Support and Information During Interruptions:

• Receive timely updates during power or gas supply disruptions.
• Access emergency power, heating and cooking equipment if the mains gas supply is interrupted.

2. Connection to Local Emergency Services:

• Enhanced coordination with local authorities, charities and community services ensures additional support during crises.

3. Tailored Services:

• Information and assistance are provided in accessible formats, accommodating various needs such as large print or audio.

4. Nominated Contacts:

• Designate a trusted individual (carer, family member, or friend) to receive notifications and information on your behalf.

5. Doorstep Safety:

• Implement password security schemes to protect against unauthorized access by service technicians.

Applying for the PSR is a straightforward process:

1. Check Eligibility:

• Verify that you or your elderly parent meet the eligibility criteria outlined by your energy network.

2. Gather Necessary Information:

• Prepare details such as name, address, and specific support needs.

3. Register Online:

• Visit the PSR website to find your electricity and/or gas distributor and complete the registration form.

4. Provide Additional Details:

• Specify any particular requirements, such as alternative heating or cooking needs, to tailor the support effectively.

5. Confirmation:

• Once registered, you will receive confirmation and further instructions on how to utilise the PSR benefits.

To ensure continued support through the PSR, regular maintenance of your registration is essential:

Update Information:

Keep your contact details and support needs current by informing your energy network of any changes.

Revalidate Eligibility:

Periodically check that you or your loved one still meet the PSR eligibility criteria.

Renew Registration:

Some networks may require periodic renewal of your registration to maintain active status.

Different energy networks offer varying levels of support through the PSR. Two prominent providers include:

Cadent Gas Network

Services Provided:

• Emergency Heating and Cooking Equipment: During gas outages, Cadent supplies necessary alternatives.
• Nominee Schemes: Allows you to designate someone to manage your accounts and receive notifications.
• Accessible Communication: Information provided in multiple formats to cater to different needs.

Staff Requirements:

• All staff are trained to offer additional services.
• Identification badges are displayed at all times.
• Password systems are used to verify legitimate callers.

Northern Gas Networks

Services Provided:

• Emergency Power Assistance: Prioritised support during prolonged power outages.
• Alternative Cooking Facilities: Ensures access to necessary cooking equipment during gas interruptions.
• Doorstep Safety Measures: Implements security protocols to protect residents.

Staff Requirements:

• Comprehensive training for all staff members.
• Visible identification and secure access protocols.
• Provision of gas safety information and emergency contacts.

Beyond the PSR, there are several other strategies to ensure the safety and well-being of elderly parents:

Home Safety:

Regularly evaluate the home environment for hazards such as falls, fires, or carbon monoxide leaks.

Emergency Preparedness:

Think ahead so everyone will know what to do and will be able to access key contact numbers and essential supplies

Create a comprehensive emergency plan that includes contact numbers, evacuation routes, and essential supplies.

Financial Fraud Protection:

Be alert to about common scams and ensure you and your loves ones put measures in place to protect their financial information.

Social Isolation Prevention:

Encourage regular social interactions and participation in community activities to enhance mental well-being.