Blind broadcaster, content creator and disability activist Lucy Edwards, is urging people who need additional support in the unlikely event of a power cut to sign up to the free Priority Services Register (PSR).
We've partnered with Lucy to outline the benefits of the PSR, showing how we offer extra support to customers who feel they may need a little in a power cut.
Taking the starring role in a video series, Lucy outlines the support available via the PSR, which includes tailored services for customers who have special communication needs, are over the age of 60, have children under the age of 5, have a chronic illness or mobility issues.
Being part of the PSR means customers receive proactive and ongoing contact during a known power outage and a dedicated welfare line during periods of storms. Information is also provided in various formats upon request including braille and large print and text relay services are available in partnership with SignLive, ensuring accessibility for those who are hard of hearing or have speech impairments.
Lucy said: “Being blind or living with a disability can make so many things more daunting which is why the support SP Energy Networks offers through its PSR – which is free to join – is so important.
“Power cuts can be stressful for anyone, so knowing that SP Energy Networks is there to help and will reach out proactively and keep customers informed and supported throughout can make a real difference. Being on the PSR doesn‘t mean they can restore your power more quickly, but it does mean they will let you know what’s happening if they know of a problem in your area and can help you get through it.
“If support like this could make a difference for you, visit the SP Energy Networks website and find out if you’re eligible, so you can be a priority if the lights go out.”
Kendal Morris, Customer Service Director at SP Energy Networks said: “Our customers are at the heart of everything we do and we know how important it is to support those who might need a bit more help in the unlikely event of a power cut.
“While our engineering teams work around the clock to restore electricity as quickly as possible when there are any issues, they are supported by an unseen army of customer service colleagues who make sure our customers know they are our priority.
“Whether it's people with medical dependencies on electrical equipment or households with young children, we’re there to offer a helping hand when it's needed most.
“It’s brilliant to have Lucy on board to help promote our Priority Services Register and ensure that people know exactly how they can benefit and how they can sign up. She’s the perfect person to showcase all the PSR has to offer and I have no doubt she will get the message across loud and clear.”
To find out if you’re eligible to join the PSR or to sign, visit spenergynetworks.co.uk/psr, call 0330 10 10 167, or text PSR to 61999.