Winter wellbeing
With the cost of living remaining high and the ongoing bus strike presenting an additional challenge, we're facing another difficult winter - but thankfully, Gateshead communities have a strong track record of coming together to help each other through hard times.
We're working hard to help those most in need and as ever, we're extremely grateful to our voluntary and community partner organisations for their support. We're also thankful to the people of Gateshead, whose community spirit continues to play a vital role in protecting the health and wellbeing of our most vulnerable groups.
We've brought together some advice and information to help you and those around you stay warm and well this winter.
Visit a Warm Space
We have created a directory of all the places available to our residents across the public, private, health and voluntary sectors so that anyone who is cold knows where they can go to get warm, stay warm and enjoy some company and hot drinks.
You'll get a warm welcome as well as a warm space, and everyone will be treated with dignity and respect.
Check in on neighbours
Some people, such as older neighbours, friends and family members, may need extra help over the winter, particularly while transport options are limited. Check that they have plenty of food and medicines and ask if they need any practical help.
If you're worried for someone's health, call 111 (or 999 in an emergency). Local pharmacies can also help with minor health concerns.
Heat the rooms you're using to at least 18°C
Maintaining indoor temperatures is particularly important if you are not mobile, have a long-term illness, or are 65 or over. Turn down your boiler flow temperature, bleed radiators and block draughts to make sure your heating system is operating as cost-effectively as possible.
Keep your body warm by wearing several layers rather than one thick layer. Use a hot water bottle or electric blanket, but make sure the items you're using are in good working order and you're using them safely.
More advice for saving money on your energy bills
Move around and stay hydrated
Drink 6-8 mugs of liquid each day, especially warm drinks during cold weather. At least one hot meal a day can also help you stay warm.
It's also important to get up and move around as much as you can.
Protect against winter viruses
It's easier for viruses to spread in the winter. If you're at higher risk of getting seriously ill from flu and COVID-19, you should take up the offer of seasonal vaccination as soon as you can.
Ask for help if you need it
Support is available, so don't suffer in silence - we're here to help. Check our directory of local services or call 0191 433 7112.
With the cost of living remaining high and the ongoing bus strike presenting an additional challenge, we're facing another difficult winter - but thankfully, Gateshead communities have a strong track record of coming together to help each other through hard times.
We're working hard to help those most in need and as ever, we're extremely grateful to our voluntary and community partner organisations for their support. We're also thankful to the people of Gateshead, whose community spirit continues to play a vital role in protecting the health and wellbeing of our most vulnerable groups.
We've brought together some advice and information to help you and those around you stay warm and well this winter.
Visit a Warm Space
We have created a directory of all the places available to our residents across the public, private, health and voluntary sectors so that anyone who is cold knows where they can go to get warm, stay warm and enjoy some company and hot drinks.
You'll get a warm welcome as well as a warm space, and everyone will be treated with dignity and respect.
Check in on neighbours
Some people, such as older neighbours, friends and family members, may need extra help over the winter, particularly while transport options are limited. Check that they have plenty of food and medicines and ask if they need any practical help.
If you're worried for someone's health, call 111 (or 999 in an emergency). Local pharmacies can also help with minor health concerns.
Heat the rooms you're using to at least 18°C
Maintaining indoor temperatures is particularly important if you are not mobile, have a long-term illness, or are 65 or over. Turn down your boiler flow temperature, bleed radiators and block draughts to make sure your heating system is operating as cost-effectively as possible.
Keep your body warm by wearing several layers rather than one thick layer. Use a hot water bottle or electric blanket, but make sure the items you're using are in good working order and you're using them safely.
More advice for saving money on your energy bills
Move around and stay hydrated
Drink 6-8 mugs of liquid each day, especially warm drinks during cold weather. At least one hot meal a day can also help you stay warm.
It's also important to get up and move around as much as you can.
Protect against winter viruses
It's easier for viruses to spread in the winter. If you're at higher risk of getting seriously ill from flu and COVID-19, you should take up the offer of seasonal vaccination as soon as you can.
Ask for help if you need it
Support is available, so don't suffer in silence - we're here to help. Check our directory of local services or call 0191 433 7112.
