Top tips for your health and happiness this winter

As we move into winter, it’s especially important to look after our health and wellbeing. Colder weather, shorter days and rising living costs can make this time of year more challenging, particularly if you’re on a tight income or spending long periods indoors.

Here are some practical tips from Welfare Benefits Executive Rebecca Relph to help you stay warm, well and supported throughout the winter months.

Keep moving
Staying active helps maintain strength, mobility and balance, and it can also help keep you warm. Try not to sit still for more than an hour at a time. Gentle movement around the home, stretching or short walks (if safe to do so) can all make a difference.

The NHS has helpful guidance on staying active as we get older.

Eat well
Hot meals and drinks can help you stay warm and provide essential energy. Soups, stews and casseroles are comforting, nutritious and economical, so aim to have at least one hot meal a day.

It’s also a good idea to keep your cupboards stocked with a few basic essentials in case bad weather or illness makes it difficult to get to the shops.

The British Dietetic Association (BDA) offers money-saving tips for shopping, reducing food waste and preparing meals on a budget. If you’re worried about affording food, the BDA also provides information about local food banks and useful helplines.

Get your winter vaccinations
You may be entitled to a free flu jab from your GP or local pharmacist if you:
•    are aged 65 or over
•    care for someone, such as a friend or family member
•    are under 65 and have a serious long-term health condition
•    live in long-stay residential care

Vaccinations can help protect you from serious illness over the winter months.

Make sure your home is warm enough
If you’re spending most of the day at home, aim to keep your living space at a consistent temperature of around 18°C. Turning off radiators in unused rooms, closing doors and drawing curtains at dusk can all help reduce heat loss.

Dressing in layers – such as jumpers, hats, scarves and using blankets – can also help you stay warm. Hot water bottles are another simple and effective option.

If you’re on a low income and struggling to pay your energy bills, our Welfare Navigator team can help. Please call 0300 102 1919 for advice and support.

You can also register with your energy supplier’s Priority Services Register, which ensures extra support, including contact during power cuts.

Stay safe in bad weather
If severe weather is forecast, make sure you have enough medication and food at home. Take extra care outdoors if conditions are icy or slippery.

The NHS provides guidance on reducing the risk of falls.

Socialising and mental wellbeing
Long, dark winter days can affect our mood and mental health. Keeping in touch with family, friends and neighbours – even for just a short chat – can really help lift spirits.
You may also have a local Warm Welcome Space in your area, offering a safe and friendly place to spend time and keep warm. Find your local Space here.

If you’re struggling, our Listening and Counselling Service is available to support you. Our Community Engagement team can also help reduce feelings of isolation by connecting you with Telephone Friendship Groups and local social events.

To find out more, please contact our Welfare Navigator team on 0300 102 1919.

Benefits support
Our Benefits team can advise you on your entitlement to state benefits, including:
•    Warm Home Discount
•    Winter Fuel Payment
•    Pension Credit
•    Attendance Allowance
•    Pension Age Disability Payment and Winter Heating Payment (Scotland)

For a referral, please call 0300 102 1919.