Sir Oliver Heald, MP for North-East Hertfordshire, has welcomed the new phone numbers published by UK Power Networks – the company that manages the power network in London and the East- and South-East of England – for power cuts assistance in adverse weather conditions. The free landline number is 0800 316 3105, and calls to 0333 323 2105 can be made from a mobile at the cost of a local call.
In addition, those over 60, care homes, and those with a disability, who are blind or visually impaired, who are chronically sick, who are dependent on medical equipment, or who have young babies can join the company’s free Priority Services Register. Those who join this Register will receive a special priority phone number to call, helpful tips and advice about how to prepare for a power cut, and regular text or phone updates in the event of a cut. If they agree, British Red Cross can be asked to visit their home for extra help and support. Constituents can register here: http://bit.ly/1qtdrDB
This year, UK Power Networks has invested more than £500 million in maintenance and upgrades, making sure their electricity networks are robust and reliable. In the last four years, UK Power Networks has reduced the number of power interruptions by 30% and cut the duration of those power cuts by 40%. In addition to their new phone numbers, they have trained an extra 900 staff to handle calls to help them improve their customer response during periods of adverse weather.
Commenting, Sir Oliver said, “I am glad that UK Power Networks have released these new numbers. Power cuts are rare, but can be difficult and dangerous, especially for those who may be particularly vulnerable, and the support and advice that people can access with these numbers will be very helpful. The UK is well-equipped to keep the lights on over winter, but unpredictable weather is more of a problem these days and these numbers will be very valuable if the worst comes to the worst.”
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