While some may be dreaming of a white Christmas, for others the winter months can bring additional challenges when it comes to keeping warm and healthy.
With the festivities almost upon us, we want to make sure residents know where they can turn to for a range of advice and support to help everyone enjoy the season safely and comfortably.
There are several things you can do to prepare alongside writing your Christmas cards and wrapping gifts, from getting your heating checked, stocking up on medicines, to finding out if you can get help with energy costs.
Here are some handy tips to help you through the festive season and beyond:
Be Prepared for Cold Weather
Taking proactive steps before the coldest days arrive can make a big difference. Here’s some key advice:
- Keep Your Home Warm and Safe
Set your thermostat to at least 18 °C (64 °F), especially if you are over 65, have young children, or live with a chronic health condition.
Check your boiler and heating system to ensure they’re working efficiently.
Use draft excluders, heavy curtains, or rugs to prevent heat loss.
- Dress for the Weather
Layer up with warm clothing, even indoors, to conserve body heat.
When heading outside, wear a hat, scarf, and gloves to protect against frostbite and hypothermia.
- Plan for Icy Conditions
Keep pathways clear by using grit or salt on icy surfaces.
Wear sturdy, non-slip shoes when walking to reduce the risk of falls.
Health Tips for Winter
Cold weather increases the risk of illnesses such as colds, flu, and chest infections. Here’s how to stay healthy:
Get Your Vaccines: The flu vaccine is free for many residents, including older adults, young children, and those with long-term health conditions. Contact your doctor’s surgery or local pharmacy to book an appointment.
Stay Active: Gentle exercise, even indoors, helps improve circulation and keeps you warm.
Eat Well: A balanced diet, including plenty of fruit and vegetables, supports your immune system.
Check Medications: Ensure you have a good supply of prescribed medicines in case severe weather disrupts travel to pharmacies.
Christmas Day and Boxing Day Bassetlaw Pharmacy Opening Times
Christmas Day
Boots, Carolgate, Retford, DN22 6DY (10am-12noon)
Boots, Larwood Worksop, S81 0HH (2pm-4pm)
Boxing Day
JHoots, Retford, DN22 6AA (10am-12noon)
Boots, Bridge Street, Worksop, S81 1JQ (10am-4pm)
Help with Energy Costs
Rising energy costs can make it difficult to keep your home warm during winter. Several schemes are available to support Bassetlaw residents:
- Warm Home Discount Scheme
Eligible households can receive £150 off their electricity bill during winter. Contact your energy supplier or check the government website to see if you qualify.
- Winter Fuel Payment
Residents born on or before 25 September 1957 could receive between £250 and £600 to help with heating costs. Payments are made automatically to those eligible. Winter Fuel Payment: Overview - GOV.UK
- Cold Weather Payment
If temperatures drop below freezing for seven consecutive days, certain benefits claimants will receive an extra £25. Cold Weather Payment: Overview - GOV.UK
- Bassetlaw District Council Energy Advice Service
The council offers tailored advice on energy efficiency and accessing grants. You can also get information about local schemes for insulation or boiler upgrades. Find out more by following ‘Help to Heat’
Support for Vulnerable Residents
For those who are particularly vulnerable during winter, additional support is available:
- Bassetlaw Action Centre
The Action Centre provides practical help, including home energy checks, shopping assistance, and transport for medical appointments. Contact: 01777 709650
- Nottinghamshire County Council Warm Spaces
Warm spaces are community hubs where residents can spend time in a heated environment without worrying about energy bills. Libraries, community centres, and other locations across Bassetlaw offer these services.
Helpful links
The Energy Saving Trust has tips on things you can do, including advice on more efficient ways to heat your home and improving insulation.
Keeping warm and well: staying safe in cold weather - GOV.UK
Cold weather and health: action cards - GOV.UK
Age UK’s website or call 0800 169 6565 and quote ‘WINTER
The Health and Wellbeing Team hope you have a good Christmas and a Happy New Year; we will be back in January 2025. Thank you for joining us throughout 2024.
Last Updated on Monday, January 13, 2025