Winter comes with a higher risk of health issues, particularly for older people or those with long-term conditions and compromised immune systems.
Find information below about how you and your family can stay well during the winter months.
As temperatures drop, remember that other people such as older neighbours, friends and family members, may need some extra help.
From simply keeping in touch to making sure they’re stocked up with enough food supplies, there’s a lot we can do to help.
The Met Office has shared advice about 10 things you can do to prepare for winter. Read their advice here.
If you're 65 or over, or in one of the other at-risk groups, it's important to get medical help as soon as you feel unwell.
You can get help and advice from:
- a pharmacy – pharmacists can give treatment advice for a range of minor illnesses and can tell you if you need to see a doctor
- your GP – you may be able to speak to a GP online or over the phone, or go in for an appointment if they think you need to
- NHS 111 – go to 111.nhs.uk or call 111 if you have an urgent medical problem and you are not sure what to do
The sooner you get advice, the sooner you're likely to get better.
