Winter Warmth Initiatives

Published on 07 December 2022 02:43 PM

Stay ahead of the chill this winter

Changes to our bodies as we get older mean that cold weather and winter bugs affect us more than they used to. The good news is that there's lots we can do to help keep ourselves well in winter.

Keep moving - Try not to sit still for more than an hour at a time. Even a little bit of activity now and then can help you maintain strength and mobility. This can be easier said than done. The important thing is to do what you're comfortable with and build up slowly

Eat well - It can sometimes be difficult to keep up the motivation to prepare meals. But it's good to try and keep to a routine where you can. It's a good idea to keep your cupboards stocked with some basics just in case you can't get out to the shops – whether due to illness or bad weather.

Get your winter vaccinations – even if you're fighting fit. Respiratory viruses are more widespread in winter, so it's especially important to get your vaccinations.

Wrap up well and stay stocked up - wearing plenty of layers is the best way to keep warm in winter. If you're heading out, make sure you take some extra layers. It's a good idea to stock up on cold and sore throat remedies, too.

Make sure your home is warm enough - try to heat your home to a steady and comfortable temperature throughout the day. Close the curtains at dusk to help keep heat in. It's a good idea to keep your bedroom window closed at night when the weather is at its coldest.

For further advice on keeping warm and healthy, please click here.

If you're having trouble with the costs of heating your home, we have a list of services which can offer support for older people.

Local services for people living in Cheshire

Cost of Living Support

Cost of living support | Cheshire West and Chester Council

Council Tax Reduction

The Council Tax Reduction Scheme is a means tested benefit based on income and capital

0300 123 8123

Housing benefit and Council Tax reduction | Cheshire West and Chester Council

Discretionary Housing Payment

Discretionary Housing Payments (DHP) can help if there is a difference between the amount you receive in Housing Benefit or Universal Credit and how much your rent is.

0300 123 8123

Discretionary housing payments | Cheshire West and Chester Council

HELP scheme

Help in Emergencies for Local People (HELP) scheme is a discretionary scheme offering local welfare assistance including support for exceptional needs and limited payments for emergency funding in a crisis.

0300 123 7065 (Monday - Friday, 9am - 5pm)

https://www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/residents/housing-benefit-council-tax/help

Household Support Fund

Household Support Fund is available to help those most vulnerable due to the rising cost of living, especially around the need for food, fuel, and other essential costs

0300 123 8123

Household Support Fund | Cheshire West and Chester Council

Home Upgrade Grant (HUG)

Home Upgrade Grant funding can deliver energy efficiency measures to eligible off-gas properties.

0300 123 8123

Council schemes | Cheshire West and Chester Council

Live Well Cheshire West

Information about local services and support for residents in Cheshire West

Money matters | Live Well Cheshire West (cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk)

Citizens Advice Cheshire West

Citizens Advice Cheshire West offer confidential, independent advice via email, over the phone, and in person, for free.

0808 2787 806 (Monday – Friday, 10am – 4pm)