Residents and business owners in a Wiltshire town are now better aware of how to prepare for severe weather and the potential of flooding, thanks to a resilience event hosted by Marlborough Town Council and attended by Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN).

Colleagues from the Distribution Network Operator’s (DNO) Customer and Community team were asked to attend the Marlborough Flood Fair as part of the ongoing relationship with the Town Council, which has been strengthened through regular presentations at Marlborough Parish Meetings and a shared commitment to emergency preparedness.

This recent event holds special significance for the community of Marlborough, as the town was severely affected by flooding in January of this year, when rising water tables forced residents from their homes - some of whom remain in alternative accommodations.

Throughout the day, Customer and Community Advisors Helen Robertson and Melanie Grace took the opportunity to connect with customers and provided practical advice on preparedness through SSEN’s resilience leaflet. The leaflet has been specifically designed to guide residents on how to pack emergency grab bags and includes lists of critical contacts; something which resonated with attendees who had experienced the real-life urgency of having to make similar preparations.

As well as resilience leaflets and personal guidance, SSEN’s Priority Service Register (PSR) information on the extra assistance available during power cuts was given out during the event, along with magnets displaying the emergency contact number 105 and portable torches; all gratefully received by many visitors who recalled the challenges of facing rising floodwaters and darkness.

SSEN Customer and Community Advisor, Helen Robertson said:

“We’d like to thank Marlborough Town Council for asking us to join them at the Flood Fair, as many attendees told us how comforting it is to know they have a contact within our team who understands their concerns firsthand.

"For residents who are anxious about the prospect of a potential power cut or further flooding, our presence at this event gave them peace of mind and a trusted source of guidance."

Melanie Grace, Customer and Community Advisor for SSEN added:

"It was moving to witness the relief of residents as we offered them information, support, and a listening ear. The Flood Fair has brought together local companies, community leaders, and residents to share knowledge, resources, and support, reinforcing the resilience that defines Marlborough.

“For some, the experience of the January flood has left lasting effects, and we were grateful for the chance to be there and help ease their concerns."

Richard Spencer-Williams, Town Clerk for Marlborough Town Council said:

“Marlborough Town Council was pleased to host the ‘Flood Fair’ event. It has become apparent this is an important issue for the Marlborough Community, and raising awareness of how to remain resilient in a changing climate and specifically adapting to the threat and impact of flood is as important as ever.

“It was great to see so many key partners attending in support and thank you to SSEN for their contribution.”

If you need extra support in a power cut or with day-to-day communication relating to energy needs, please register for SSEN’s free Priority Services Register (PSR).

SSEN can then provide you with regular updates, safety advice, dedicated 24-hour helpline and communication in a format that meets your needs. For example, SSEN can engage with you in large print, Braille, alternative languages or British Sign Language.

Everyone has different needs and SSEN is keen to cater to your individual requirements. For more information, please visit ssen.co.uk/priorityservices or call freephone 0800 294 3259 to find out how you, a family member or friend could benefit from free support during a power cut.