Being a good neighbour is important at any time, but particularly in winter when distress or illness can be caused by the cold.
Neighbours may be in need of help, especially if they are older people, disabled, or have a chronic illness, and signs to look out for are milk bottles or newspapers not taken in, lights not be turned on or off and curtains remaining drawn throughout the day.
Keeping warm can be a problem for everyone particularly older people. Being a good neighbour is important at any time but particularly in winter when distress or illness can be caused by the cold.
Tips for keeping warm:
- Try to keep a constant temperature of 21°C (70°F) throughout the house.
- Make sure your home is well insulated, use draught excluders and keep curtains closed, but DO NOT block up air vents.
- Take a little exercise every day.
- Wrap up warm before going out, wear gloves and a hat, cap or head scarf.
Warm Front Grants
Warm Front is a Government funded scheme which provides grants to make homes warmer, healthier and more energy efficient.
Do I qualify for a grant?
- You must own your own home or rent from a private landlord.
- You must receive one or more of certain income related benefits, e.g. Pension Credit
- What does a Warm Front Grant provide?
- Insulation improvements, for example:
- Loft insulation
- Cavity wall insulation
- Heating Improvements:
- Gas, electric or oil central heating (only if no central heating in property or current system completely broken down)
For further information and advice on Warm Front Grants contact (freephone number) 0800 316 6011.