Keeping warm this winter is a worry for many families across the UK with many households struggling to pay heating bills and have to make sacrifices to keep warm.
In October and November 2009 we teamed up with Age Concern and the Community Food and Health team from Warrington and Halton Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust to give customers tips on how to stay warm and safe.
Our ‘Keep Warm, Keep Well’ campaign saw the Halton Community Advice Bus out and about in Runcorn and Widnes, with staff from the Trust and Age Concern.
Here’s some useful advice and tips to save you money and help keep you warm this winter!
Tips and advice
Keeping Your Home Warm
In winter the recommended temperature for rooms is 21°C (70°F). Try to ensure all your rooms are at 21°C. If this is not possible, keep your main living room warm and warm your bedroom and bed before you go to bed.
Get to know how the timer and thermostat on your heating system work to get the most effective results. It may be better to set the timer to come on earlier rather than to have the thermostat set higher.
Keep your bedroom window closed at night. The coldest part of the day will often be while you are asleep.
It is often cheaper to use your central heating rather than individual fires as this heats the whole home rater than just one room.
If you do use a fire, put guards around and be careful not to hang washing too close to the fire.
Be careful not to sit too close to gas, electric or open fires.
Ensure you have draught proofing on your windows and doors.
Contact your energy supplier
Why not contact your own supplier to see if they have any energy efficiency products to help you save money on your energy bills?
Many Energy and Utility companies’ offer incentives to improve your energy efficiency as well as offering ‘duel fuel’ and direct debit discounts.
Make the most of your money
Did you know that if you are aged over 60 (before 21.09.08) then you are eligible to a Winter Fuel Payment, paid by the Government to assist with heating costs over the winter months?
You may also get help if you receive certain benefits or have specific medical conditions. We can check whether you are receiving the benefit money you are entitled to.
Staying Healthy
Exercise and physical activity generate heat and generally increases your fitness.
Stop smoking
Giving up or reducing your smoking will save you money and improve your health. The risk of respiratory illness is greatly increased during the winter.
Consult your local GP for information on the Flu Jab - people over 65 or those with chronic health problems are at a greater risk of being effected by Flu and the risk in greatly increased during the winter.
Healthy Eating
Eat at least one HOT meal a day and try to include a good range of foods i.e. vegetables, potatoes, rice, pulses, meat and fish. Drink warm drinks through the day and one before bedtime.
If you struggle to prepare meals for yourself, due to disability or illness, a "Community Meals Service" maybe the answer. Please contact us to see how we can help you.
Clothing and Footwear
Wear suitable clothing. Layering thinner clothing will keep you warmer than one thicker layer, as the layers trap the warm air. Thermals, wool, fleeces and cotton are recommended.
Ensure your footwear has a grip on the sole to avoid falling and slipping.
Wear warm clothing to bed as your body temperature drops when sleeping – ensure you turn any electric blanket off before you go to sleep.
If you would like any further information on the ‘Keep Warm, Keep Well’ campaign or any of the tips or advice then please contact:
Debbie Jameson
Halton Housing Trust Tel: 0151 510 5180
Daresbury Point Fax: 0151 510 5100
Green Wood Drive E-mail: Debbie.Jameson@haltonhousing.org
Manor Park
Runcorn
Cheshire
WA7 1UG
Or your local housing office: