Electricity, gas, and water, sometimes referred to as utilities, form essential parts of our daily lives. When they are stopped, be it planned or otherwise, this can be an inconvenience for some. However, for others it can be scary or even life threatening.

To try and address the needs of these groups, utility companies have a duty to hold a Priority Services Register to know which of their customers require prioritised support.

Rural England is working with the Countryside and Community Research Institute to understand how the Priority Services Register may better serve people in rural areas. A key part of this research will focus on those with visual impairments, as there is a lack of research in this area.

If you, or somebody you care for, has a visual impairment and lives in a rural area, the research team are keen to speak to you about your relationship with utilities and how you may be affected by stoppages.

To share your experience, please contact Fred Dunwoodie Stirton via email at: freddunwoodiestirton@gmail.com or call: 07985475862.

If you know someone with a visual impairment who may wish to take part, please forward this to them.