Supporting People Beyond The Gas Meter

A role with real purpose

Amanda Jones from Cadent joined us on Mix 56 this week , and it didn’t take long to see how much she cares about the work she does.

As Cadent’s Safeguarding and Community Partnership Officer, Amanda helps connect vulnerable customers with the support they need, while also working with community projects across the network.

Supporting people beyond the meter

Cadent’s work goes far beyond pipes and boilers. Amanda explained that the company has around 34 community partnerships in Cheshire, including work with organisations such as the Alzheimer’s Society.

Across its wider network, Cadent also supports community centres and projects that offer advice, reassurance and practical help to people facing difficult circumstances.

Centres for Warmth and practical help

One of the biggest parts of that work is Cadent’s Centres for Warmth. These are places where people can go for support, guidance and a bit of breathing space when things feel overwhelming.

Many of them offer carbon monoxide advice, free carbon monoxide alarms for vulnerable customers, help with the Priority Services Register, and access to benefits advice for people who may not realise they’re entitled to extra support.

Helping with bills and worries

Amanda also spoke about how the centres can help people understand their bills and check whether they’re on the right tariff. At a time when energy costs can feel confusing and stressful, that kind of support can make a real difference. Sometimes it’s not just about saving money, but about helping people feel more in control and less alone.

A powerful example of the work

During the interview, Amanda shared a recent example from the Birmingham area that showed just how important this work can be. A man referred by the fire service was found to be living in extremely poor conditions, with hoarding issues and a collapsed roof. Cadent is now helping to clear the property carefully, repair the roof and restore the heating.

Why the Priority Services Register matters

Amanda explained that Cadent’s safeguarding work is built around four key priorities: carbon monoxide awareness, fuel poverty, identifying needs, and services beyond the meter.

That’s where the Priority Services Register becomes so important. It can support older customers, families with young children, people with disabilities or terminal illnesses, and those with temporary needs after illness or hospital treatment.

Small details, big reassurance

Amanda gave a brilliant example of how the PSR can help in real life. She described how an elderly couple in a rural area received a warning call before a storm, along with advice on how to stay safe, and then a follow-up call afterwards to check they were okay.

The PSR can also include a password system and “knock and wait” support, which is especially helpful for people who need a little extra time to answer the door.

A well-earned break

Away from work, Amanda revealed that her happy place is a static caravan in Skegness, where she spends most weekends. After hearing how much she does to support others, it was lovely to end the chat on something a bit more personal.

A simple step that could help

If you think you or someone you know might benefit from extra support, it’s worth looking at the Priority Services Register. Amanda’s message was clear: the help is there, and sometimes it can make a huge difference.

• The Priority Services Register