Stay warm, well and connected this winter

Colder days are coming, but a little preparation can help you and those you care for stay warm, healthy and connected. From vaccinations, to help with heating bills, there is the support available in Richmond.

Get protected for winter and help stop winter infections spreading

Flu and COVID-19 vaccinations, as well as pneumococcal and RSV vaccinations, help protect against serious illnesses that are more common in the winter. Check which vaccinations you are eligible for and book online, through the NHS App or at your GP or pharmacy. If you have children or care for young people, do check flu vaccination arrangements for children too. 

Colds and other infections circulate more easily during the winter months. Wash your hands regularly, cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue and stay at home if you are unwell and have a high temperature or do not feel well enough to carry out your normal activities. If you are visiting someone who may be particularly vulnerable to infection, consider postponing your visit if you are unwell. 

For health and wellbeing advice, visit the health pop-up at Whitton Library on 12 November or Ham Library on 13 November. Eligible residents can get free vaccinations and an NHS Health Check, alongside stop smoking support, and help with energy bills. No booking needed. 

Find more information about how to keep well in winter.

Make your home winter ready 

A warm home can help you stay well and comfortable as temperatures fall. These small steps can help you prepare for colder days: 

• Heat the rooms you spend the most time in to at least 18°C
• Reduce draughts by closing curtains and using draught excluders
• Don’t let your home get too cold but do open windows regularly to prevent damp and mould
• Wipe condensation from windows, cook with lids on pans and use extractor fans
• Install a carbon monoxide alarm and test it regularly

For more help, explore practical home improvements and check whether you qualify for the Winter Warmth Home Service, which offers energy advice and access to grants. 

Drop in to the winter support event on 6 November in The Salon at York House, Twickenham, from 1 to 7pm. Eligible residents will receive a Warm Home Pack. There will also be flu vaccinations available and local organisations to talk to about support for keeping well during winter.

Get help with winter costs

Winter can put extra pressure on household budgets. If you are worried about heating bills or other everyday costs, local services can help you explore the support available. Eligible households may be able to get financial help with heating, housing and living costs.

Check your eligibility for Thinking Works winter warmth home service or for free, impartial advice on managing your energy bills, contact the South West London Energy Advice Partnership on 0800 086 2706. 

Stay connected and find support 

Colder days can make it harder to get out and about, and stay in touch. Whether you would welcome some company, a warm place to spend time or help with everyday essentials, there is support nearby: 

• Visit libraries, community centres and the borough’s Community Spaces for warmth, company and activities
• Find affordable winter clothing in charity shops or if you have spare clothing, donate unwanted items
• Check Richmond Food Bank eligibility and locations
• Find public toilets through the Community Toilet Scheme
• Visit a Safe Haven if you feel unsafe or need help

A quick call or visit can make a difference to someone who finds winter more difficult. Check in with neighbours, friends and family, particularly anyone living alone or with a long-term health condition, to see whether they are warm, well and have food, medicines and other essentials. 

Before travelling or spending time outdoors, check the latest Met Office forecasts and weather warnings. If severe weather is expected, plan ahead by making sure you have enough food, essential medicines and other supplies at home. 

You can also help others prepare by sharing our winter weather and winter health and wellbeing advice with anyone who may need extra support.