Resources > Healthy Body

Winter Wellness

When it’s cold and dark in the winter, you’re more likely to become unwell. There are lots of services to help you stay healthy and warm in the winter

Stay warm

Older woman turning down the temperature on a thermostat on the wall in her house.

Cold weather affects everyone, and a cold home could affect your health. The chances of becoming unwell are higher if: 

 

  •  You are over 65   
  • You are on a low income (so can't afford heating)  
  • You have a long-term health condition such as heart, lung or kidney disease   
  • You are disabled 

 

One of the best ways to stay well during winter is to stay warm and heat your home, especially if your house is damp.  

Stay healthy

Two older adults wearing helmets and casual clothing stand with their bicycles on a park path, smiling at each other. Trees and white buildings are visible in the background.
  • Try not to sit still for more than one hour. Get up to stretch your legs, walk around the house, and get your body moving. You could try some gentle stretches or at home exercise videos if you do not want to go outside.

  

  • Wear shoes with good grip if you need to go outside to make sure you don't fall.

 

  • If you have visitors, open the windows for a few minutes before and after they arrive. This can help stop the spread of germs.

  

  • If you feel unwell, speak to your local pharmacist for advice. They can provide information and over-the-counter medicine for minor illnesses like coughs, colds and sore throats.  

Get vaccinated

Flu and COVID-19 are common in the winter. The best way to protect yourself and your family is to get the flu and COVID-19 vaccine. It is safe to get both jabs at the same time or close together. If you can't get your booster jab yet, don't wait to get your flu jab. 

 

Flu 

The flu vaccine changes every year to fight the latest version of the flu. So, it's important to get this year's jab even if you got one last year. 

 

The NHS gives free flu vaccines to many people. You can find out more on the NHS website. 

 

If you can't get a free flu jab, you can buy one at your local pharmacy. 

 

COVID-19 

People who are at high risk from COVID-19, or live with/care for people who are at high risk, can get a COVID-19 jab this winter. 

 

The vaccines are free for everyone who is eligible and are only available through the NHS. 

Stay connected

Woman is in her kitchen on the phone smiling

Keep in touch with your friends, family and neighbours, especially if they might be vulnerable. Ask how they are feeling and if they need any support.

 

If bad weather is coming, check if they need any food or medication.  

Winter Wellness Scheme

Stay well this winter with the support of the Winter Wellness Scheme.

 

The Winter Wellness Scheme is a community-focused initiative by Havering Council, in partnership with the NHS and local organizations, to support residents in maintaining good health and wellbeing during the winter months.

 

This program offers tailored wellness calls to residents, helping connect them to health, care, and community services designed to meet their individual needs.

 

Our goal is to ensure that everyone has access to the support they need to stay healthy and independent.

 

The scheme connects eligible residents with resources and services aimed at supporting physical and mental health, fostering independence, and addressing unique needs.

 

By working closely with the NHS, local area coordinators, social prescribers, and community organisations, we ensure a collaborative approach to wellness.

What the scheme offers

Through the Winter Wellness Scheme, you can benefit from:

 

  • personalised wellness calls to discuss health and wellbeing.
  • assessments to identify specific needs and recommend suitable services.
  • referrals to health, social care, and community support programs.

Who the scheme supports

The scheme is designed for residents who may require additional assistance to manage their health or access services during winter.

 

This includes:

  • individuals seeking advice on staying healthy and independent.
  • those who want to connect with local resources and support networks.

How the scheme works

Wellness calls
Our team reaches out to residents who may benefit from understanding their health, independence, and wellbeing needs.

 

Personalised assessments
During these calls, our team will talk to you about your health, independence, wellbeing and we assess your situation and discuss options tailored to your goals.

 

Support and referrals
Based on your needs, we’ll connect you to relevant services such as health advice, social care, or community programs.

Why join the scheme

  • Improved health - Improve your overall health and wellbeing.
  • Tailored support - Get connected to services that fit your specific needs.
  • Improved outcomes - Take proactive steps to enhance your independence and quality of life.

How to join the scheme

If you are interested in learning more or believe you could benefit from the Winter Wellness Scheme, please contact us at 01708 432280.

 

Our team is here to help you make the most of the services available in Havering.

Related Pages

Upcoming Events

Upcoming events

Warm & Cool Space at The Hope Café

Warm & Cool Space at The Hope Café

Hosted by HoPEC (House of Polish and European Community). Soup, tea and coffee board games, reading corner and occasional activities.

The Monday Meet Up at The Hubb Café

The Monday Meet Up

Free refreshments, activities and talks in partnership with AgeUK RBH Di’s Diamonds over 50s social group.

Mardyke Community Association Warm & Cool Space

Mardyke Community Association Warm & Cool Space

Activities, breakfast, refreshments, advisory information and free use of IT Suite and computers.

Elm Park Community Association Warm & Cool Space

Elm Park Community Association Warm & Cool Space

Social morning with refreshments and activities hosted by Elm Park Community Association.

Warm & Cool Space at The ROYALS Centre

Warm & Cool Space at The Royals Centre

Refreshments, lunch, activities, arts and crafts, children’s corner.

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