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As we enter the winter season, we all need to be prepared for colder weather. It is important that everyone is aware of the effects of cold weather on everyone’s health.

The key messages to prepare yourself are:

• Be aware that the cost of living and increase in fuel bills will result in many more people living in cold homes.
• The health impacts of the cold weather start at relatively moderate outdoor temperatures of around 4-8°C particularly for vulnerable people. Keep indoor temperatures at 18°C minimum, higher for vulnerable people.
• The twin challenges of Flu and COVID-19 continue, encourage staff and service users to have relevant vaccinations to keep well. To find out where you can get these vaccinations and who is eligible, please see below.
• Sign up to the cold weather alerts - The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) Cold Weather and Heat-Health Alerting Service is operated by the Met Office. Register for the new Cold Weather and Heat-Health Watch alert service

Groups at who are more vulnerable the harm from cold weather:

At-risk groups include people whose health, housing or economic circumstances put them at greater risk of harm from adverse weather including

• older people (aged 65 and above)
• people with cardiovascular (heart and circulation) conditions
• people with respiratory conditions (in particular chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and childhood asthma)
• people with mental health conditions
• people with learning and/or physical disabilities
• young children (particularly those aged under 5)
• pregnant people
• people on a low income

Useful resources to support you to stay well and warm in winter:

• How to stay well this winter webpages and has easy read, large print and audio resources.
• Keeping warm and well: staying safe in cold weather - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
• 16 tips on how to stay warm in cold weather
• Help with energy bills (brighton-hove.gov.uk)
• Health and Safety advice on Slips and trips - Icy conditions and winter weather (hse.gov.uk)

Flu, COVID-19 vaccinations and RSV vaccinations

Anyone eligible for either a flu, COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccines is encouraged to take up the vaccine as soon as possible, to give themselves the best possible protection this winter. You can find information you need about how to get your vaccine on this link.

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