Free energy advice for people with a learning disability in Reading 

Free energy advice for people with learning disabilities is being provided by Reading Mencap thanks to a new partnership with gas distribution network SGN.

The partnership was officially announced at a celebration event at Reading Mencap’s offices at Alexandra Road, Reading on Tuesday 13 May.

The new project, which will run for 13 months, offers crucial guidance on using energy safely and reducing energy bills.

Through this new service, individuals with learning disabilities and their families and carers can:

• Get help signing up for the Priority Services Register for support during electricity, gas, or water disruptions
• Learn how to stay protected from the dangers of carbon monoxide
• Get energy saving tips
• Get advice and information about locking cooker valves

Information and advice will be provided on a one-to-one basis by specially trained staff as well as through energy safety workshops and information events. All information guides will be produced in easy-read format, specifically designed for people with learning disabilities.

Louise Roberts of Reading Mencap said: “We are delighted to partner with SGN to offer essential energy advice.

“Through this project, individuals with learning disabilities in Reading will gain invaluable knowledge on energy safety, learn how to lower their bills, and access essential resources like the Priority Services Register and carbon monoxide alarms. This collaboration will make a real difference in the lives of the people we support.”

Janet Duggan, SGN Community Partnership Manager, said, “We’re committed to keeping our communities safe and warm and we know people with a learning disability are uniquely impacted by higher-than-average energy costs.

“By working in a joined-up way with Reading Mencap, we’re able to reach those who are really struggling and provide much-needed energy advice. Through building strong connections we can help vulnerable households get much-needed help.”