Understanding priority services
It’s really important that both your energy and water suppliers and Distribution Network Operator (DNO) know if you’re in a vulnerable situation or have a health condition so they can include you on their Priority Services Register. Details of your DNO can be found on your energy bill or at www.energynetworks.org/customers/find-my-networkoperator.
To find out if you can be put on the Priority Services Register, go to www.thepsr.co.uk or call 020 7066 1000. You’re eligible for the Priority Services Register if you’re:
- Of pensionable age
- Have a child under the age of five
- Have a long-term health condition or disability
- Use medical equipment reliant on electricity or water (such as chilled medications that have to be kept in the fridge, dialysis machines, cpap machines etc)
- Have recently experienced something that would put you in a vulnerable position, such as bereavement, loss of job or recent loss of income.
Your Rights
Under Ofgem rules, suppliers are strictly banned from forcing a prepayment meter on vulnerable households, including anyone over 75 or homes with children under 14.