Keep Well This Winter
Keep Well This Winter is a campaign which aims to provide information and support to enable people to keep safe and well during the winter months.
Download the leaflet for tips on keeping well and which also contains contact details of local organisations of schemes that can help older people.
It's Time To Get Your Flu Jab
Flu is a respiratory infection caused by the influenza virus. Various strains of the virus circulate throughout the world year-round, causing local outbreaks. In UK the flu season usually runs from November to April so get your flu jab early to avoid putting yourself at risk. For more information regarding flu click here.
Minimising Your Risk
The most effective way to protect yourself from flu is to be vaccinated each year in the Autumn. Flu jabs are especially important for:
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adults and children with chronic heart and lung disease |
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anyone living in a nursing home |
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people 65 years of age and older |
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people with chronic conditions such as diabetes, anemia, cancer, immune suppression, HIV or kidney disease |
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health care workers, other caregivers and household contacts capable of transmitting influenza to the above at-risk groups |
For more information on the flu jab click here.
How Do I Get a Flu Jab
Speak to you GP or Practice Nurse. They will be best placed to advise you on the basis of you personal circumstances. If you live in a long-stay care home you should speak with your manager or nurse.
Get the Pneumococcal Jab Too....
You can also have a free pneumococcal jab if you are:
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Age 65 years or over |
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Have a chronic medical condition such as chronic respiratory disease, heart or kidney |
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disease, diabetes or a depressed immune system because of cancer, HIV infection, or some other cause |
Unlike the flu jab this will normally be given to you only once and can be given at the same time as the flu jab – but in a different site. If you would like more information ask your GP or Practice Nurse.
Keeping Warm
Keeping your home warm in winter is increasingly more expensive. However there is help available.
Energy Efficiency
There are lots of simple thing you can do to save energy and reduce your fuel bills including insulation and energy efficient boilers.
Winter Fuel Payment
If you have reached the qualifying age you may get a Winter Fuel Payment to help pay for keeping warm in winter. This can be between £125 and £400 depending on your situation. Find out if you are eligible for this payment and how to apply.
Cold Weather Payment
If you're on a low income, a Cold Weather Payment may be available to help you for each week of very cold weather in your area. You don't need to apply; you'll get a Cold Weather Payment automatically as long as you qualify.
Eating Well During the Winter Months
You might be eating less because you're finding it more difficult to buy or prepare food but it's important to eat regularly, at least 3 times a day. Remember you can make a healthy, nutritious meal by using tinned, chilled and frozen ready-prepared ingredients. Eating a varied balanced diet can help you stay healthy, active and independent. Keep a food cupboard stocked with tins and essentials in case of illness or bad weather. Frozen foods keep well and retain much of their nutrient content.