REACT Responds to Muswell Hill Gas Outage: Supporting a Community in Crisis

Pictured: Responder Neil conducts welfare checks on residents in Muswell Hill. Credit: Olivia Everett 2025.

When a burst water main in Muswell Hill flooded the local gas network, nearly 3,000 homes were left without gas. This outage disrupted heating, hot water, and cooking facilities, leaving residents vulnerable during cold January days. As the crisis unfolded, REACT joined efforts with Cadent Gas and other organisations to provide much-needed welfare support to affected households.

The Scope of the Crisis

The burst water main caused water to flood gas pipes, requiring engineers to pump out over 33,000 litres of water before restoring the gas supply. The complex repair process meant homes had to be individually checked for safety before reconnection. With over 500 vulnerable residents, including nearly 200 classified as highly vulnerable, the situation demanded swift and compassionate action.

REACT’s Role: Providing Reassurance and Support

Since the crisis began on the 12th of January, REACT volunteers have been on the ground, conducting welfare checks and offering support to residents in need. Working alongside the British Red Cross and under the guidance of Cadent Gas, REACT Responders have focused on ensuring that no one has felt isolated during the outage.

Daily tasks have included door-to-door visits to homes, particularly those on the priority services register, to ensure residents were comfortable and informed about available resources. Responders have also coordinated the distribution of supplies, including socks and hot food, and guided residents to the Freehold Community Centre, a hub for updates and support.

Residents have expressed gratitude for the assistance, and the sense of camaraderie was evident in moments like sharing homemade curry and takeaway food at the community centre after shifts. “It wasn’t just about addressing physical needs like heat or hot water,” one volunteer explained. “It was about being there for the community, offering reassurance, and letting them know they weren’t alone.”

As the repair efforts continue, Cadent Gas has requested ongoing support from REACT Responders. Welfare checks for vulnerable households will remain a priority, with teams ensuring residents are safe and aware of available resources.

How You Can Help

This response highlights the importance of community action during crises. Here’s how you can support:

1. Stay informed: Follow updates from Cadent Gas for the latest news on restoration progress and available resources.
2. Spread awareness: Share information about this crisis to encourage support for affected residents and the teams working to help them.

A Reminder of Resilience and Solidarity

The Muswell Hill gas outage has been a challenging time for thousands of residents, but it’s also a testament to the power of the community. With REACT Responders, Cadent Gas engineers, and local organisations working hand-in-hand, vulnerable individuals are receiving the care and support they need.

This crisis may not be over yet, but the collaborative spirit on display proves that together, we can weather any storm—or outage.