Warm and well

This Winter

Looking after yourself is an essential part of staying warm and well this winter. There are lots of easy tips you can follow to ensure that you and your loved ones stay healthy. These include:

• Making sure your medicine cabinet and first aid box is well-stocked. This can help to treat minor injuries and illnesses at home, without the need to see a GP or visit A&E.
• Always think 111 first. Calling 111 is free, and the team can help to triage your problem and recommend the best course of action, whether that's treatment at home, a visit to the doctors or a trip to A&E.
• Ask your pharmacist if you have any health queries. Your pharmacist can advise for a whole range of issues, from minor illnesses like coughs and colds to general advice on staying well.
• Getting regular exercise is a great way to build up your body's immunity against minor illnesses this winter. Even if it's just a walk around the block with a friend, getting moving is fantastic for your body and mind.
• Eating regular hot meals will allow your body to stay warm as the weather gets colder. Try to get at least one hot meal per day. If you're struggling with food, visit the council's cost of living hub for help.
• Access local mental health support if you need it. Winter can be a tough time for many, but there is no need to struggle alone. Visit the Healthy Stockport website for help with stress, anxiety and low mood, including access to local support helplines

Winter can be tough for everyone. With extra pressures this year caused by the rising cost of living, we want to make sure that all residents stay warm and well through the colder months. There is plenty of support available from the council and partner organisations in the borough. Visit the cost of living support hub for more information.

Taking small actions to stay warm and save money in your home is easier than you might think - did you know that you can save over £55 a year by turning your appliances off standby mode and turning off your lights when you are not using them will save around £20 a year on your annual energy bills. You could close your curtains to keep the warmth in your home and speak to your neighbours if you are going to be away to help protect your home during this time.

Learn more about benefits and discounts on energy bills on our cost of living support pages. Read more about the vital support available this year by visiting the council's newsroom.

The Energy Saving Trust offers tips on how you can reduce how much energy you use and how to lower your bills.

You may be able to reduce your energy bills by switching your supplier or changing your energy tariff. You can find independent advice on the Ofgem website. They regulate the gas and electricity market.

We know that community spirit is a big part of life in Stockport.

Checking in on family, friends and neighbours can help to build a support network and stop anyone from feeling isolated this winter. Especially this year, with the cost of living continuing to rise.

The One Stockport Local directory is part of our neighbourhoods and prevention ambitions which aim to create happy and healthy lives for everyone living in Stockport.

It brings together local support and things to do in the community to make it easier for people to help themselves, their families, and those they care for.

Drop in on a neighbour, especially if they are elderly or vulnerable. Offer to do chores such as shopping or clearing a pathway in bad weather

Stay up to date with weather updates from the The Met Office.

If you need mental health support, visit the Healthy Stockport website.