Health and wellbeing
Cold-health alert issued for West Midlands as temperatures drop
Published on
With the upcoming new year set to bring in colder weather conditions, residents are encouraged to take steps to keep warm and well, with a yellow cold-health alert currently in place until Monday 5 January 2026.
Planning ahead by keeping up to date with the weather forecast, checking food and medicine stock and taking measures to reduce draughts at home are some of the steps residents can take to benefit their comfort and wellbeing.
With cold weather increasing the risk of winter illnesses circulating such as flu, Walsall residents are also advised to get the flu vaccination from their GP or local pharmacy.
Other proactive measures can help residents stay safe and comfortable during colder months, particularly those who are more likely to experience the effects of cold weather.
“ With colder weather forecast, your wellbeing is important to us, and it is important to check in on those more vulnerable to the cold weather. This includes older people, very young children and people with long term conditions, as it can have a serious impact on health.
Maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature is also important. Try and heat your home to at least 18°C, and take other measures to protect yourself such as wearing lots of layers.
Getting the help you need can help you stay well when it is cold. Warm spaces are open and welcoming to anyone across Walsall who need somewhere to meet other people and get support.
There are also services that can support you with advice about your fuel bills and payments, or heating and insulation measures that you may be eligible for.
Keep in touch with others and ask if they need any practical help such as stocking up on food and medicine.
We know that winter conditions can affect your health, and it is important to think about which service is right for you at the right time. For everyday health needs, visit the NHS website, your local pharmacy, or contact your GP for advice and ongoing care. If you need urgent medical help, use NHS 111 online or call 111 for advice and guidance to the right service. In a life-threatening emergency, always call 999 immediately. “
Information about homelessness and rough sleeping
Individuals experiencing homelessness face an increased risk of cold-related health problems.
The Rough Sleepers Team staff have been completing outreach work, identifying homeless individuals and providing guidance and shelter as needed during the current cold weather.
To report rough sleepers in Walsall and request assistance from the team, please make a referral using the following method:
Streetlink website: http://thestreetlink.org.uk
Email: RooflessReferral@walsall.gov.uk
Tel 01922 652250 – Option 4.
You may also find the following website useful when supporting a rough sleeper or someone facing homelessness: https://streetsupport.net
- Cold-health alerts published by the UK Health Security Agency are available on GOV.UK dashboard: Cold health alerts | UKHSA data dashboard
- Full details about the Cold Health alert service can be found on the Met Office website.
- The Adverse Weather and Health Plan aims to protect individuals and communities from the health effects of adverse weather and to build community resilience.
- The NHS has advice on how to keep warm and well during the cold weather.
- Residents who need help keeping their home warm, paying for food, housing and other bills can visit our cost-of-living support portal: http://bit.ly/3CYZhZs
- Warm spaces are also available and open for residents to access where they live. To find a warm space visit the Walsall Community Network website.
- Residents living in Walsall can get help with energy efficiency through the Walsall Energy Action Project.
- Support is also available through Act on Energy.
- Groundwork’s Green Doctors help UK residents stay warm, stay well, and save money on household bills by offering free and impartial advice. Visit Green Doctor, helping UK residents stay warm, stay well, and save energy. - Groundwork for more information.
