Thousands of households across East Lancashire are missing out on crucial free support.
New research carried out by Electricity North West has identified a major gap in Extra Care Register registrations across towns and villages served by East Lancashire Hospitals Trust (ELHT).
The research has revealed a 54 per cent gap in registrations for families with children under five. Whilst half of the residents aren’t even aware of the free service which provides support during power cuts.
To help tackle the issue, the region’s power network operator has formed a pioneering partnership with ELHT maternity services.
The partnership aims to help new parents, ensuring comprehensive care and tailored support for families with young children.
Karen Hunter, customer inclusion manager at Electricity North West, said: “We’re proud to be partnering with the maternity services provided by East Lancashire Hospital Trust.
“We’ve carried out extensive research regarding our Extra Care Register and identified a gap that families across East Lancashire with children under five either aren’t aware or aren’t signed up.
“Our partnership will help empower new parents with the information, advice and support whilst also ensuring their safety and comfort, should they ever experience a power cut.”
The initial stages of the partnership will see Electricity North West fund a series of digital videos providing standardised, engaging, and accessible information on essential postnatal topics. With the Trust also helping promote the Extra Care Register.
Lola Lee, maternity and neonatal programme manager, added: “This digital video project is a significant step forward in how we support new families.
“By providing crucial discharge information in an accessible format and translated into eight additional languages, we can enhance the care and support we offer, ensuring new parents feel informed and confident as they begin this new chapter."
Electricity North West’s Extra Care Register provides extra support for those who may need it during a power cut. This could be for those who require electricity for medical needs, are older or have young children at home.
People can register for Electricity North West’s free Extra Care Register at www.enwl.co.uk/ExtraCare.
People can download the Badgernotes app to access the postnatal advice videos.
