Northern Powergrid is calling for vulnerable individuals to join its free Priority Services Membership (PSM).

The electricity network operator, serving eight million customers in North East, Yorkshire, and northern Lincolnshire, has initiated a campaign advocating for people to register themselves or a loved one prior to winter.

Those eligible include those medically reliant on electricity, of pensionable age, families with young children five and under, individuals with specific communication needs, impaired mobility, severe illness or mental health needs.

Membership doesn’t guarantee immediate restoration of power, but marks the customer for additional assistance in case of power cuts.

This information guides Northern Powergrid in assisting the vulnerable.

PSM also plays a crucial part in offering intelligence during major incidents coordinated by local authorities and emergency services.

Louise Lowes, Northern Powergrid’s Head of Customer Services, stresses being prepared against the risk of severe weather damaging electricity equipment, especially during winter.

She said: “If someone’s medical or personal situation means a power cut could be more challenging for them, we want to ensure they have the information and assistance they need to reduce the impact whilst our frontline teams do everything possible to restore their power as soon as possible.”

Interested individuals can visit northernpowergrid.com/care, email priorityservices@northernpowergrid.com or call 0800 169 2996.