Keep warm and well this winter
Paying the food and fuel bills, coping with young children, or looking after an elderly relative – a few of the challenges people face throughout the year. But as the days get colder and the nights get darker, it’s more important than ever we take steps to take care of ourselves and the people we care about. Be prepared this winter and follow our top tips to stay warm, well and connected.
Quit smoking
With the right support, quitting is easier than you think. Get started today with the Wellbeing Service.
Pension credits
Did you know if you can claim just £1 of Pension Credit it can unlock other benefits, including a free TV license?
Get vaccinated
Protect yourself the flu season by getting vaccinated. Keep as healthy as you can by staying ahead of the flu.
Damp and mould
Many properties struggle with condensation and mould. Find out more including what you can do to protect your home.
Keep warm
There are small changes you can make to help keep you and your home warm. These include:
You can also find details of local Warm Spaces at Connect NEL or visit Home energy.
Health and wellbeing
It’s important to take care of ourselves all year round, but the cold weather can make this difficult. Here are some tips to make it a little easier:
Eat well
Making sure we eat a healthy, varied diet can be hard, especially as it gets cold. As the weather cools, we naturally crave comfort food, making it the perfect time to incorporate seasonal vegetables into meals like soup or stews.
Keep active
It’s good to keep moving as the weather starts to gets colder. Whether it’s taking part in an activity or going on an winter walk, there’s something for everyone. Get inspired by visiting DiscoverNEL.
Get vaccinated
Pharmacists can advise on flu jabs, including eligibility for free NHS jabs, and whether you need to see a GP. Early advice can prevent your symptoms from getting worse. Visit the NHS website for more.
Stock up
Make sure your medicine cabinet is restocked and full. Having at-home remedies can help you treat many common illnesses such as colds or a sore throat, without having to visit your GP.
Low mood, stress, and worry
Connect
Keep in touch with friends, family and colleagues, even if it’s via a video call or a text message.
Be active
Outdoor activities can boost your mood, but there are plenty of indoor exercises to try as well.
Take notice
We can improve our wellbeing by paying attention to the moment and enjoying the little things.
Keep learning
Use the extra time indoors to learn something new, like cooking or enrolling in an online course.
Give
Whether it’s checking in on your neighbour or volunteering, giving back can give you a sense of community.