They have created a joint video to promote the Priority Services Register, a service that all utilities provide for people needing extra support for a variety of reasons.

The companies involved are all members of the Utility Networks Partnership and are already working closely together to help customers living in vulnerable circumstances.

They are Affinity Water, Anglian Water, Northumbrian Water, Essex and Suffolk Water, SES Water, SGN, South East Water, Southern Water, Thames Water, UK Power Networks, Cadent Gas and Cambridge Water.

Pamela Goee, head of community, SGN, said: “Keeping our customers safe and warm is of the utmost importance to us. That’s why across the utility sector we have come together to make the Priority Services Register even easier to use, giving our customers extra support when they need it most. It’s completely free of charge and it’s simple to sign up.”

Kerry Potter, UK Power Networks’ consumer vulnerability manager, who chairs the Utility Networks Partnership, added: “It’s fantastic to work as a team to create a new video promoting the Priority Services Register which is making it easier for eligible people to get support. When 12 utility companies share a consistent message, we can help far more people.

“Collaboration is key to tackling vulnerability and our utility networks group work together to provide consistent services for vulnerable customers in the regions we serve.”

Thirty-five charity partners have helped develop the video to increase awareness about the free help available from utilities in the event of a gas, water or electricity outage.

The Priority Services Register is available to customers who:

• Rely on medical equipment
• Have refrigerated medicines
• Are living with a serious or chronic illness
• Have a disability or have communication needs
• Are living with dementia
• Are of pensionable age
• Have children under five in the home
• Need extra support for a short time due to life changing events like bereavement.

Customers are being encouraged to register now to make sure that, in the event of an unexpected emergency, they can benefit from free services from their utilities, such as providing tailored support like alternative cooking facilities, hot meals or bottled water.