Supporting Disabled and Vulnerable Customers: How SSEN Keeps Communities Connected and Safe

Summary:
Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN), part of SSE plc, manages the electricity distribution and transmission networks across northern Scotland and central southern England. Beyond maintaining essential power supplies, SSEN plays a crucial role in supporting disabled and vulnerable people through its free Priority Services Register (PSR) — offering welfare checks, accessible communication options, and priority updates during power cuts. These efforts ensure that disabled people stay informed, safe, and connected, especially those who rely on medical or assistive equipment.

Key Takeaways

Powering Homes and Protecting People

Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) delivers electricity to millions of homes and businesses, powering daily life across a large part of the UK. While much of its work happens behind the scenes, SSEN’s role goes far beyond keeping the lights on. The company has taken a proactive approach to supporting disabled and vulnerable customers, recognising that losing power can be more than an inconvenience — it can threaten health, independence, and safety.

Through its Priority Services Register (PSR), SSEN ensures that those most at risk during power disruptions receive the right help at the right time. This includes personal welfare calls, updates in accessible formats, and practical support from trained teams who understand the challenges many disabled people face during outages.

What the Priority Services Register Offers

The PSR is completely free and designed for anyone who might find a power cut particularly difficult to manage. This includes people who:

• Use medical equipment or mobility aids that require electricity
• Have a visual, hearing, or cognitive impairment
• Are elderly, have a long-term health condition, or care for someone who does

Once registered, SSEN makes sure customers are contacted first during planned or emergency power cuts. If needed, the company’s welfare teams can visit to check on people’s wellbeing, provide hot drinks or blankets, and coordinate with emergency services or care networks when necessary.

This service shows how energy companies can help remove barriers created by inaccessible systems — putting the Social Model of Disability into practice by recognising that disruption becomes disabling when support isn’t accessible.

Accessible Communication for Everyone

Understanding that accessibility isn’t one-size-fits-all, SSEN provides information in Easy Read, large print, audio, and translated versions for people who prefer or require alternative communication formats.
You can view these options and download the Easy Read PSR guide directly from the SSEN website:

• Easy Read Guide (PDF)
• Accessible Communication Options

This commitment to accessibility ensures that no one is left in the dark — figuratively or literally — when essential information is needed most.

Registering Is Quick and Free

Joining the Priority Services Register takes only a few minutes online or by phone. The form asks simple questions to identify your needs and make sure you receive the right level of support in future.
You can find everything you need here:

• Register for the Priority Services Register
• Contact SSEN

If you’re unsure whether you or someone you care for qualifies, SSEN encourages you to register anyway — there’s no downside, and it could make a crucial difference during an unexpected power cut.

Useful SSEN Links

• SSEN Official Website
• Priority Services Register Overview
• Accessible Communications
• Registration Form
• Contact SSEN
• PSR Easy Read Guide (PDF)

Why It Matters

For many disabled people, power is more than comfort — it’s independence, connection, and safety. By prioritising accessible communication and direct support, SSEN demonstrates what inclusive service design looks like in action. It’s a reminder that true accessibility is about anticipating needs, not reacting to crises.

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