Winter Watch offers advice for elderly and vulnerable people in Berkshire

With the cold winter nights now drawing in, people are being encouraged to take a number of steps to stay well over the winter period in Reading, Berkshire.

Winter Watch, the council’s annual scheme to provide support and information over the colder months is now underway.

The scheme focuses on supporting the most at-risk groups, including those with disabilities, older people, low-income families, and those with serious illnesses.

They assist with damp proofing properties, providing emergency heating and bedding, providing emergency energy payments, and carrying out home energy checks.

There is more information available about Winter Watch and how they can help by calling 0118 937 3747, or visiting www.reading.gov.uk/winterwatch.

There is also a reminder for the most vulnerable groups to ensure that they have received their free flu vaccine. This is available to those with long-term underlying medical conditions, older people, carers of elderly and disabled people, and pregnant women – the groups most likely to suffer from serious complications as a result of the flu. The free vaccine is available at most GP surgeries in the area, and in most local pharmacies.

Cllr Graeme Hoskin, Lead Member for Health, said: “Despite the huge cuts to our funding from government we’ve worked hard as a council to continue our Winter Watch scheme. More people die in winter than the rest of the year due to the effects of the cold. Older people are at particular risk of health problems, as are children and people with disabilities or long term illnesses.

“If anyone feels they are struggling to keep warm or indeed know any neighbours who they think may need help, then please contact the Council to find out more about how the Winter Watch scheme can help.

“Additionally, if you are eligible for the flu vaccination, don’t put it off – get it now. Getting vaccinated now is the best way to protect yourself from this unpleasant and potentially deadly illness.”

NHS Stay Well This Winter campaign is also recommending a number of other steps to take to ward off the most common illnesses this winter including:

• Keep yourself warm – if you can, heat your home to at least eighteen degrees C (65F)
• Speak to your pharmacist as soon as you start to feel unwell, even if it is just a cold or cough
• Ensure you have medicine in the home to deal with common ailments like coughs, colds and upset stomachs

For useful information on staying well, visit www.nhs.uk/staywell or www.nhs.uk/Livewell/winterhealth.