West Worcestershire MP Dame Harriett Baldwin has encouraged vulnerable people to sign up for special assistance amidst power cuts this winter.

Pensioners and those with medical conditions can receive advanced notice of power cuts and priority help during emergencies.

The MP recently met with local representatives from the National Grid where she agreed to promote the Priority Services Register, which you can join by contacting your energy supplier.

She was also briefed on the steps to take in case of a power cut, including keeping a torch, mobile phone, warm clothes, blankets and food handy. There is also a dedicated free 105 phone service to report power cuts and get engineer updates.

Dame Harriett said:

“We saw from Storm Ashley that winter has arrived and I am worried for my isolated constituents who might be left without electricity in times of poor weather.

“If you or someone you know needs extra help, I urge you get in touch with the household’s energy provider and ask to be put on the Priority Services Register.

“Over the last five years £12 billion was invested to improve the resilience of the electricity network but all infrastructure is vulnerable to storms and poor weather. I want to make sure everyone who needs it can get the right support in an emergency.”