EDF, Octopus, British Gas and more emergency energy support for pensioners and disabled billpayers

Pensioners, along with other vulnerable groups, could be entitled to additional support from theirenergy supplier. This extra help can vary significantly and may be provided over an extended period or for a shorter duration if you've recently encountered a situation that's impacted your personal life.

The Priority Services Register is a complimentary service available throughout the UK, enabling energy suppliers to offer tailored assistance to those most in need. This support is also accessible if you experience any disruption to your gas, electricity, or water supply.

This might include having engineers on hand to assist with any emergency issues you encounter outside of standard working hours, including weekends. However, the Priority Services Register is only open to certain groups who need it most.

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Who is eligible to be on the Priority Services Register?

According to guidelines from the Priory Services Register website, you might be eligible to join the register if the following conditions apply:

• You temporarily need extra support
• You need documents translated into another format or language
• Are of pensionable age
• Loss or impairment of smell
• Have a disability
• Have anxiety, depression or any mental health condition
• Have a chronic illness
• Deaf or hard of hearing
• Are blind or partially sighted
• Live with children under five

All major firms with a Priority Services Register

Below is a list of some of the UK's largest energy firms, as well as a link to further explain what they offer with the Priority Services Register.

• EDF Energy
• Scottish Power
• E.ON
• Octopus Energy
• British Gas
• OVO Energy

How to apply

To apply for the Priority Services Register, you can either speak with your supplier or network operator directly. When submitting an application, make sure to provide as much information as possible about your needs and personal situation so they can determine your eligibility.

You can contact your firm or network operator through their own online website, in writing, or on the phone. If you're unsure of who to contact, or how to contact them, Ofgem can provide further guidance here.