Health and care partners urge communities to Stay Well This Winter as Cold Weather arrives

As the UK Health Security Agency issues a cold health alert and temperatures drop across Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire, health and care services are encouraging local people to Stay Well This Winter with a new health and wellbeing campaign.

Cold weather can affect anyone, but it poses greater risks for people aged over 65, those with long-term health conditions, people who live alone, and anyone with reduced mobility.

The Stay Well This Winter campaign encourages people to access support, advice and guidance available in their community to keep themselves well during the colder months, with topics including:

  • Boosting your immunity with vaccinations
  • Staying active
  • Staying warm at home
  • Tackling money worries
  • Protecting your mental health
  • Seeking advice from community pharmacists
  • Getting urgent treatment from local minor injury units
  • Using NHS 111 for urgent care support

The campaign is led by experts from health, care and voluntary sector organisations who have shared their knowledge and experience to help local people to protect themselves and their loved ones this winter.

Dr Joanne Medhurst, Chief Medical Officer at NHS Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire ICB, said:

“As the weather turns colder it’s important to take extra steps to keep warm. Lower temperatures increase the risk of colds, flu and more serious health problems such as heart attacks, strokes, pneumonia and depression – particularly for our more vulnerable residents.

“We are using this campaign to encourage everyone to take positive steps to look after their own health and support those around them this winter. By making small changes and taking simple actions, we can help protect ourselves and contribute to the wellbeing of our local communities.”

Five ways to Stay Well This Winter during cold weather 

  1. Keep the heat in – Draught-proof windows and doors, and keep curtains closed in the evening to help retain heat. There are financial schemes, like the Warm Home Discount Scheme to help heat your home and Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire councils also offer advice on keeping homes warm. 
  2. Wrap up warm – Wear additional layers of clothing as the temperature drops, try to avoid adding one thick layer but rather multiple thinner layers to provide better insulation.
  3. Use warm spaces - Bristol City Council, North Somerset Council and South Gloucestershire Council have several community-based spaces where people can stay warm, access support with the cost of living and socialise with others.
  4. Check on others – Check in on vulnerable family members and neighbours and encourage them to keep their home warm, particularly in areas they use most. If they need to go outdoors, remind them of the importance of wrapping up warm and wearing shoes that provide a good grip to limit the risk of falls.
  5. Stay active – Even a small amount each hour can help older adults stay warm and maintain strength and mobility. This winter, try to spend less time sitting down during the day. Stay active in the house and do some simple physical exercises if you feel able.

Vaccination remains one of the best defences 

Alongside keeping warm, health leaders are reminding eligible people to boost their immunity and take up the offer of flu and Covid-19 vaccinations.

Dr Joanne Medhurst, adds:

“Flu and Covid-19 circulate more widely in winter and can lead to serious illness, particularly for those who are older or have underlying health conditions.

“Getting vaccinated is our best defence against flu and Covid-19. It gives you strong protection and is one of the most important steps you can take to stay well this winter.”

Find out more about vaccination and the Stay Well this Winter campaign.