Did you know that you can sign up to a Priority Services Register to receive extra support from your energy or water company?  

The Priority Services Register (PSR) is free to join and is for people who have extra communication, access or safety needs and find it hard to deal with their energy supply. 

You'll normally be able to get priority services if your energy companies class you as 'vulnerable'.

You could be classed as vulnerable if you're disabled or have a long-term health condition. This includes hearing, sight and mental health conditions.

You’re eligible if any of these criteria apply: 

You have reached your State Pension age

  • You are disabled or have a long-term medical condition
  • You are recovering from an injury
  • You have a hearing or sight condition
  • You have a mental health condition
  • You are pregnant or have children under five

You have extra communication needs, such as if you do not speak or read English well

You might still be able to register for other reasons. For example, if you need short-term support after a stay in hospital.

Being on the register gives you access to:

  • Information in an accessible format
  • Notice of planned power cuts or water supply issues
  • Identification schemes where companies give you a password, so you know it’s a genuine call
  • Nominee schemes where they send your bills to a family member or carer of your choice
  • Priority support in an emergency
  • Help with meter readings

If your situation isn't listed, you might still be able to sign up for priority services for other reasons - for example, if you're recently bereaved or you've returned to living independently after some time in residential care.

You can apply even if you don't have an energy supplier - for example if you live in a park home and pay the park owner for your energy.

If you have different companies for water, electricity and gas, you will need to sign up with each.

If you switch suppliers, you will need to register again with your new company.

If you move house but stay with the same company, you’ll remain on their register, but you will need to update your details.

If your meter is not easy to access, you can speak with your supplier about:

  • Installing a smart meter which sends readings automatically
  • Sending someone to read the meters regularly
  • Moving the meter

Depending on your supplier, you might have to pay to move the meter. Changing to a smart meter should be free.

Each company has its own Priority Services Register. You can find their contact details on your bill.