Winter can bring cold weather, flu, and other illnesses. Higher living costs can also make it harder to heat our homes and stay well. Cold weather can affect your health and create extra challenges for our community.
We work closely with our health and care teams. This helps ensure everyone gets the care and support they need in the cold months.
This page explains how to stay warm, safe, and healthy when cold weather arrives. Find out how you can get help with your energy bills. How you can keep your home warm and stay healthy during the winter months.
Community hubs
Community hubs are safe and friendly places. They are run by local charities and community groups. Residents can feel supported and included. You can drop in on your own or bring a friend to have a warm drink and a friendly chat with others. Find a community hub in Harrow
Advice for preparing for cold weather
When there is a risk of severe cold weather, you should make sure you have:
- An adequate supply of your regular medicines
- Enough food
- Bottled water in case your water supply is interrupted.
- Keep torches and spare batteries near you in case the power goes off. Keep important phone numbers handy. Call 105 if you have a power cut to get help and advice. You can also contact your energy supplier early so they know to call you during a power cut.
If you feel unwell in cold weather
If you feel unwell, you can get help quickly:
- Pharmacies can treat minor illnesses and tell you if you need to see a doctor. Find your nearest pharmacy.
- Your GP (General Practitioner) can speak to you online, over the phone, or see you in person.
- Call NHS 111 or visit NHS 111 online if you need medical help right away.
Simple steps from health teams to stay warm and well:
- Heat the rooms you use to at least 18 °C
- Wear several thin layers of clothing instead of one thick layer
- Enjoy regular hot meals and warm drinks
- Move around often to keep your blood moving
- Keep an eye on weather reports and cold warnings.
Cold weather can worsen health issues, even if it’s just a bit chilly. Taking small steps early helps keep you and your family safe.
Vaccinations for the winter
The flu vaccine helps to protect you against flu. Flu is a common illness, but it can sometimes make people very poorly. The NHS offers a free flu jab every year ahead of winter to help people who need extra protection. Find out more on our vaccinations page.
Looking out for family and neighbours
Check on older neighbours and family members when you can. Make sure they are warm and have enough food and medicine. Staying in touch helps prevent loneliness. This can help to boost their happiness and health.
If you are worried about an older person, contact Age UK. Age UK can be reached on 0800 678 1602 (open 8am to 7pm every day).
Travel and outdoor safety tips
- Clear snow and ice from paths outside your home using salt or sand. Do not use water because it freezes into clear ice, which makes paths very slippery.
- Take extra care when walking outside in icy weather.
- Avoid driving in bad weather if you can. If you must drive, check the weather first and pack a car kit. For example, blankets, hot drinks, water, snacks, a shovel, de-icer, and a phone charger.
Air pollution in winter
Cold air can trap pollution for longer. This can make breathing difficult. This is especially true for those with heart or lung issues. For more information, visit the Defra website.
Help with bills and saving energy
If you were born on or before 27 June 1960, you could receive £100 to £300. This money can help with your heating bills during winter. Find out more about the Winter Fuel Payment.
You can check online to see if you are eligible for home energy schemes. Find out more using the Energy Grants Calculator.
Seasonal Health Intervention Network (SHINE)
We partner with SHINE. It's a free service that helps you cut energy costs, manage energy debt, and keep your home warm. Free support from SHINE is available if you live in Harrow and:
- You are aged 60 or over
- You are on a low income
- You have a disability or long-term illness
- You have children.
SHINE can offer help with:
- Energy bills and water discounts
- Free home visits from an energy doctor
- Extra care services
- Heating and home insulation grants
- Fire safety checks
- Air pollution alerts
- London Taxicard for cheaper taxi rides if you qualify.
Call 0300 555 0195 or visit shine london.org.uk for your free check.
