Health and wellbeing
Cold-health alert issued for West Midlands
Published on
With colder weather conditions expected, residents are encouraged to take steps to keep warm and well, with a yellow cold-health alert in effect from Friday 13 February 2026 until Monday 16 February 2026 across the West Midlands.
The yellow alert is likely to have minor impacts on health and social care services, including increased use of healthcare services by vulnerable people and greater risk to life for those who are vulnerable.
Residents are encouraged to plan ahead by keeping an eye on weather updates and ensuring they have enough food and medication at home. This aligns with the advice that simple preparation can help improve comfort and wellbeing during cold spells.
“ With cold conditions expected, we want to support people to stay healthy and well. Low temperatures can have a significant impact on older adults, young children, and those living with long-term conditions, so please do check in on those who may be vulnerable.
Maintain a comfortable indoor temperature by trying to heat your home to at least 18°C, and take other measures to protect yourself such as wearing lots of layers.
Warm spaces are open and welcoming to anyone across Walsall who need somewhere to meet other people and get support.
It’s also important to get advice, if you need it, about 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.
For everyday health concerns, you can visit the NHS website, speak to your pharmacist, or contact your GP. If you need urgent medical help, NHS 111 can guide you to the right service. In an emergency, dial 999. “
Support for people experiencing 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: 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.
