Health and wellbeing
Walsall residents reminded to keep warm and well as cold weather alert issued
Published on
With colder weather anticipated over the coming days, Walsall residents are being reminded to take simple steps to keep warm and well and look out for others.
The Met Office, in conjunction with the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), has updated its cold-health alert to amber for the West Midlands until 12:00 on Tuesday 5 December.
“ During periods of cold weather, it is important to check in on family, friends and relatives who may be more vulnerable to the cold weather, as it can have a serious impact on health.
It is important to try and heat your home to at least 18°C, and to take other measures to protect yourself such as wearing lots of layers.
Make sure you are getting the help you need. Across Walsall, community spaces are open and welcoming to anyone who needs a warm space, 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. If you are worried about your health or know someone who may be, contact your local pharmacist, your GP or NHS 111 for advice and support. “
ENDS
Notes to editor:
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Cold-health alerts published by the UK Health Security Agency are available on GOV.UK.
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Full details about the Cold Health alert service can be found on the Met Office website (opens in new tab). You can register to receive the alerts by completing this form (opens in new tab).
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The Adverse Weather and Health Plan (opens in new tab) aims to protect individuals and communities from the health effects of adverse weather and to build community resilience.
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The NHS has advice on how to keep warm and well during the cold weather.
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In partnership with Walsall Council, Walsall Community Network has developed a one point of access where people can find their nearest warm hub by locality. Warm hubs provide an opportunity to meet new people, have a hot drink, fill a flask, and meet in a place which is welcoming and warm. Visit Warm Walsall | Walsall Community Network (opens in new tab) for more information.
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Residents living in Walsall & the West Midlands can get free and impartial advice from Warmer Homes West Midlands on better heating their home and keeping warm. Get support by calling 0808 196 8298 or go to http://warmerhomeswm.org.uk (opens in new tab) for more information.
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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 (opens in new tab) for more information.
