Have you requested to signed up for priority access to utilities?
Published on: 10th December 2018 | Updated on: 22nd July 2026
Community pharmacy owners are required to have business continuity arrangements in place and confirm this annually through their Data Security and Protection Toolkit declaration.
One way to strengthen your business continuity planning is to request to sign on to the Priority Services Register (PSR).
This free service is provided by utility companies and may help pharmacies receive additional support during disruptions to electricity, gas or water supplies.
For community pharmacies, this ability to request signing on, may be particularly important where power outages could affect the storage of refrigerated medicines or disrupt access to essential services.
Why sign up?
The Priority Services Register is primarily to support individuals who could be significantly affected by utility supply interruptions.
Pharmacy utility disruptions would have a knock-on impact for vulnerable patients.
Registering your pharmacy may help you to:
- Receive advance notice of planned service interruptions;
- Receive additional support during unexpected outages;
- Help utility companies understand the importance of restoring services quickly; and
- Strengthen your pharmacy’s business continuity arrangements.
How to request to sign up
Your utility bills may include details about the Priority Services Register and how to apply.
Alternatively:
- Visit your utility company’s website and search for “Priority Services Register” or “PSR”; or
- Use the Energy Networks Association website to identify your energy network operator and find the relevant registration information.
When registering, make sure you agree to information sharing where this option is offered. This can help utility companies coordinate support more effectively.
Tips when completing your application request
When requesting priority support, consider:
- Providing at least two contact names and contact details.
- Confirming an email address that can receive updates about planned and unplanned service interruptions.
- It is critical within your request to explain that your pharmacy: (1) stores refrigerated medicines; and (2) provides essential healthcare services to vulnerable patients.
- Including the word “pharmacy” within the request application to help utility companies understand the nature of the premises.
Water supply arrangements requests
You may need to contact your water supplier separately to request priority support.
When making your request, explain that your pharmacy is a sensitive property that provides healthcare services to the local community.
Some water companies are also able to see those already listed on the PSR.
Related resources
For more information on this topic please email it@cpe.org.uk
