Advice and support on Extreme Weather
Heatwave
Please protect yourself and others from the possible health effects of hot weather.
The elderly and those with long-term illnesses are particularly vulnerable to the effects of very hot weather, so it's important to look out for them and keep indoor areas as cool as possible.
More information on staying safe in hot weather can be found through the links below:
- Heatwave: how to cope in hot weather - NHS
- Beat the heat: staying safe in hot weather - GOV.UK
- Sun, UV and cancer - Cancer Research UK
Cold weather
Keep your home warm
You should heat your home to a temperature that is comfortable for you. Low indoor temperatures can have a serious impact on your health, especially if you have medical conditions or are older.
Simple changes can help to keep you and your home warm. These include:
- Try to heat rooms you spend a lot of time in, such as the living room or bedroom, to at least 18°C.
- Try to reduce draughts; you can fit draft excluders around doors cheaply.
- Keep your bedroom windows closed at night.
- Wear several layers of thinner clothing; this could keep you warmer than one thicker layer.
Seek financial support
There are grants, benefits and sources of advice available to help you if you are struggling with your energy bills.
Find out more about financial support on Money Matters
Look after yourself and others
You can get vaccinated to help reduce risk from respiratory illnesses during the winter. This is particularly important if you have certain long-term health conditions that mean you are more vulnerable to the effects of cold weather.
You should treat minor winter ailments like colds or sore throats promptly. If you are worried about your health or feeling down, contact your local pharmacist, NHS 111 or your GP, who will all be able to offer advice and support. In an emergency dial 999.