Wessex Water and Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) recently teamed up to showcase how they work together to support customers in vulnerable circumstances.
A shared utility event was held for the first time at Wessex Water’s Bath headquarters, where partner charities, councils and community groups were able to learn more about schemes such as Priority Services – a register of customers with specific needs that is quick and easy to join.
Wessex Water is committed to an open systems approach to helping customers and has recently launched its new Marketplace platform, an online collaboration tool for organisations inside and outside the water industry.
Kate Robbins, Wessex Water’s head of customer policy, said: “We know that anyone can find themselves vulnerable at any time, maybe due to illness or unemployment or simply a change of circumstances such as a bereavement or relationship break-up.
“Because our customers are our priority, we are committed to providing extra support and help when and where it is most needed.
“Working in partnership with SSEN has enabled us to share best practice, lobby for change and work collaboratively to raise awareness and increase take-up of our support schemes such as Priority Services.”
SSEN stakeholder engagement manager Alison Dean added: “SSEN and Wessex Water have been working in partnership since May 2016 to support our customers in vulnerable circumstances.
“This event gave us the opportunity to show what we can offer and enabled us to reach and better support those customers in our region who need us most.”
Priority Services provides tailored help for people who need it. For example, providing bills and information in alternative formats, a password scheme for visits and ensuring customers always have access to water during unplanned interruptions such as a burst.
