Health and wellbeing
Amber cold weather alert issued for West Midlands
Published on
A cold weather alert has been issued for the West Midlands as temperatures are expected to remain low this week.
The Met Office, in conjunction with the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), updated its cold-health alert to amber for the West Midlands until 12pm on Friday 12 January 2024.
“ With colder weather forecast for this week, ensuring the wellbeing of our residents and communities is important. Reach out to family, friends and relatives who may be more vulnerable to the cold weather, particularly 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 to take other measures to protect yourself such as wearing lots of layers.
“Getting the help you need can benefit your wellbeing. 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. If you need support for your health or know someone who may need support, please contact NHS 111, or your local pharmacist or GP, and call 999 in an emergency. “
ENDS
Notes to editor:
- Cold-health alerts published by the UK Health Security Agency are available on GOV.UK.
- Full details about the Cold Health alert service can be found on the Met Office website. You can register to receive the alerts by completing this form.
- 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.
- The NHS Black Country Integrated Care Board has further information to help which service people should use to get the right support and quickest medical help in their area: BC_Think_Which_Leaflet_Draft_v12_Digital.pdf (blackcountryics.org.uk)
- 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 for more information.
- 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 for more information.
- 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.
