Embracing winter: Tips for staying warm and well

The days may be starting to get lighter, and spring is almost in sight, but the cold weather is still with us and set to continue for a little longer. During the winter months it’s important to keep in mind how we can all stay safe, warm, and healthy.

We’re fortunate to have services and support available to help our communities through the colder months.

Keeping warm at home

When the weather is cold, we all tend to spend more time indoors. Maintaining a comfortable temperature at home - around 18°C in the rooms you use most - can help prevent illness. Simple steps like closing curtains at night, using draft excluders, and checking your boiler or heat pump are easy ways to keep your home warm and energy efficient.

While keeping your house warm, do remember to open windows regularly, especially when cooking or showering to let your home breathe and avoid the build-up of condensation and damp.

If you struggle to afford to heat your home, you could be eligible for support from the winter warmth home service. Check out the Cost of Living Hub for advice and to see what support you are entitled to.

Staying active helps to keep you warm and healthy. Keep moving if you can, and try simple chair-based exercises if you are sitting for long periods of time. If you can get outside safely, do wrap up and get some fresh air – even a short walk will give your health and mood a boost and help shake off any ‘January blues’.

Protecting your health

Flu and COVID-19 are still circulating and one of the best ways to protect yourself and those around you is to get vaccinated. Those who are eligible can get a free flu vaccine and COVID-19 vaccine through their GP, pharmacy, the Health Bus or a walk-in vaccination clinic. It’s not too late to benefit from vaccination, even in this later stage of the season.

Our Health Bus is in the community over the next few months offering health and wellbeing advice, including free NHS Health Checks for those eligible, free blood pressure checks and tailored stopping smoking advice - no appointment needed, just drop-in.

Frequent handwashing and using tissues to ‘catch it, bin it, kill it’, remain important to help stop the spread of infections. If you become unwell, you (or a neighbour) can drop-in to your local pharmacy for advice or call 111 if you’re unable to leave the house.

You can book GP appointment online, through the NHS App or over the phone. If you think you need urgent treatment and may need to attend one of our Urgent Care Centres or hospital A&E departments, call 111 or NHS 111 Online who will direct you to the best service based on your symptoms. In life-threatening emergencies, always call 999.

Looking out for your community

Richmond is consistently rated as one of the best places to live and I think it’s because of the people and the communities that call our borough home. During times of cold weather, it’s an opportunity for our community spirit to shine through.

Cold weather can be particularly tough for older residents, people with health conditions, and those struggling financially. Please check in on neighbours, friends, or family who might need a little extra support. If you can, make sure they have warm clothing, enough food and medication, and safe footwear for icy conditions. Sometimes a quick phone call, WhatsApp message or knock on the door can make all the difference.

The Neighbourhood Care Group in your area may be able to help, so do reach out to them. And if you need a warm space or a friendly chat, our libraries and community centres are open to everyone.

This winter, keep looking after your health and let’s look out for one another. Whether it’s helping a neighbour, getting vaccinated to reduce the spread of infection, or taking small steps at home to stay warm, every action counts. Together, we can make this season safe, healthy, and full of community spirit.

Share this