Six Key Groups Urged to Join Priority Services Register for Energy Bill Support

Government Minister Urges Vulnerable Households to Sign Up for Energy Bill Assistance

A government minister has issued a fresh update encouraging UK households to consider signing up to a little-known register that could provide crucial help with soaring energy bills. The call to action comes as many families across the nation continue to grapple with the financial strain of increased domestic power costs.

Priority Services Register: A Vital Lifeline for Struggling Households

The register in question is officially known as the Priority Services Register, a free scheme designed to assist households facing steeper energy expenses. These rising costs have been exacerbated by global market pressures, including the conflict in Iran, which has driven up the price of gas and oil internationally. This has had a direct impact on UK petrol, diesel, gas, heating oil, and electricity prices, creating a challenging environment for many consumers.

According to the UK energy regulator Ofgem, both energy suppliers and network operators—the companies responsible for the infrastructure that carries electricity and gas—maintain their own Priority Services Registers. Ofgem states on its website: "Joining their Priority Services Register means you'll be able to get a range of extra help when you need it. This could be all the time, or for a short period due to something that's happened in your life."

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Parliamentary Spotlight on Energy Support Measures

The register was brought into focus during a recent Parliamentary response issued on Friday, April 17. This followed a question from Scott Arthur, the Labour MP for Edinburgh South West, who inquired about the steps the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) is taking to support individuals with high domestic power bills, particularly those arising from complex medical needs amidst recent energy price fluctuations.

In response, Martin McCluskey, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for the DESNZ, highlighted the register and outlined additional government support measures. He said: "From April, households will benefit from a reduction in energy bills thanks to the action that the Government took in the Budget, with the price cap falling by £117, giving households certainty on their bills until July."

McCluskey also pointed to £53 million in funding announced for low-income families who heat their homes with oil, aimed at tackling surging prices. This funding is being delivered by local authorities through the Crisis and Resilience Fund. He added: "They may also be eligible for support such as the Warm Home Discount and I would urge anyone in such a challenging situation to contact their energy supplier or Citizens Advice to see what further support is available. Vulnerable consumers who need extra support are also able to sign up for the Priority Services Register for free."

Comprehensive Support Available Through the Register

Ofgem explains that joining the Priority Services Register can provide access to a wide array of additional support, tailored to individual needs. This assistance may be required on an ongoing basis or temporarily due to changes in personal circumstances. Key benefits include:

• The opportunity to relocate your prepayment meter if you cannot safely access it to top up.
• Priority support during emergencies, ensuring quicker response times.
• Advanced notification of scheduled power cuts, wherever feasible.
• An identification and password scheme for visits or contacts, enhancing security and confidence.
• The ability to nominate a trusted person, such as a family member or carer, to receive communications and bills on your behalf.
• Regular meter reading services to ensure accurate billing.
• Account information and bills provided in large print or braille for those with visual impairments.
• Assistance with reconnecting your gas supply if needed.

Six Key Groups Eligible for Priority Services Register Support

The register is specifically designed to benefit six broad categories of people who may be particularly vulnerable to energy cost pressures. These groups are:

1. Individuals who have reached state pension age.
2. Mothers who are currently pregnant.
3. Mothers with young children.
4. People who struggle with speaking or reading English.
5. Those living with a disability or a long-term medical condition, including mental health issues, sensory impairments, or conditions requiring powered medical equipment.
6. Individuals whose circumstances have recently changed, such as those recovering from an injury, needing support after a hospital stay, dealing with bereavement, or having lost their job.

How to Join the Priority Services Register

Ofgem advises that interested individuals should contact their energy supplier or network operator directly, providing as much detail as possible about their situation. This can be done online, in writing, or by phone, with contact information typically available on the provider's website. For those unsure of their energy supplier, Ofgem offers guidance on its find your energy supplier page to help identify the correct contact.

By taking this step, vulnerable households can access tailored support that may alleviate some of the financial burdens associated with energy bills, offering a crucial safety net in times of need.