Get help and advice to keep warm in winter

St Helens Borough Council doesn't want to see anyone struggle in winter. That's why every year we promote staying warm and well to our most in-need and vulnerable residents. This year we have produced a Keeping Well In Winter and Beyond Guide 2023-24 (PDF) [2MB] (opens new window) .

The guide contains lots of useful information and advice about actions you can take to help you stay warm and healthy throughout the winter months. It also provides details of the support available to reduce energy bills and make energy efficiency improvements to keep your home warm.

For more information please call our Affordable Warmth team on 01744 676555.

Emergency Power Cuts & Being Winter Ready

National Grid Electricity System Operator (NGESO) is responsible for balancing energy supply and demand and ensuring there is enough electricity generated to power homes and businesses. If we have an extreme shortage, it might be deemed necessary for NGESO to instruct network operators to implement emergency power cuts.

The Energy Networks Association and network operators have put together information on what you need to know should there be power cuts and how you can be as prepared as possible this Winter. Please visit the websites below for further information.

Be Winter Ready - Energy Networks Association

Scottish Power Energy Networks - Preparing for Winter & Emergency Power Cuts 

Electricity North West - Be Winter Ready

Priority Services Register

The Priority Services Register is a free service to help vulnerable people who may have additional needs. You can sign up by contacting your local network operator and energy supplier. Each keeps their own register.

The type of help available will vary, depending on your circumstances and the support from your local network operator/supplier. All network operators can offer:

• Advance notice of planned power cuts
• Priority support in an emergency
• An identification and password scheme 

Being registered for priority services does not guarantee a continuous supply of energy. As supply interruptions can happen all year round, it's important you are prepared and know what to do if they happen.

You are eligible to register if you:

• have reached state pension age
• are disabled or have a long-term medical condition
• are recovering from an injury
• have a hearing or sight condition
• have a mental health condition
• are pregnant or have young children
• have extra communication needs

You may also be eligible for other reasons, for example if you need short-term support after being in hospital.

It's best to contact your network operator to check. And once you have registered, it's important to keep your supplier or network operator updated if your circumstances change.

For more information please call our Affordable Warmth team on 01744 676555.