Dr Neil Shastri-Hurst MP, has urged vulnerable residents in Solihull West and Shirley to sign up to National Grid Electricity Distribution’s Priority Services Register (PSR) for individual support in the event of a power cut.
National Grid Electricity Distribution is the network operator for Solihull West and Shirley, meaning that they operate and maintain the electricity network in the area.
The PSR offers free support in a power cut to people who rely on electricity for medical equipment, those with long-term illness, people with disabilities, pensioners, and parents or carers of children under five.
Proactive contact is a key feature of the PSR, meaning, that if National Grid are aware of an outage, they will call all PSR customers in the affected area to offer support.
PSR customers also have access to a dedicated phone number to call if power is disrupted and receive regular updates on when electricity will be restored.
During prolonged outages, National Grid partners with the British Red Cross and the National Caterers Association to provide hot food and welfare support.
Customers in Solihull West and Shirley only need to tell one utility about their needs, as National Grid will be able to register them with water and gas providers so they can access further support.
The PSR has the added benefit of providing advice on energy efficiency, finances, and smart technologies, with trusted charity partners on hand to help.
Registering is easy and can be done online in under two minutes at www.nationalgrid.co.uk/psr, or by calling 0800 096 3080.
Dr Neil Shastri-Hurst, Member of Parliament for Solihull West and Shirley said:
I had a very useful meeting with National Grid to learn more about the Priority Services Register and how it can support my constituents.
Power cuts can be dangerous and stressful times for residents, especially those who are more vulnerable such as those who are elderly or whom suffer from health conditions. By registering with National Grid’s PSR, constituents can receive tailored, practical, and emotional support during a power cut.
Notes to editors
https://www.nationalgrid.co.uk/customers-and-community/priority-services
