Winter can be a hazardous time for many of us – more people get ill in winter and the number of deaths rise.
At particular risk are the elderly, those suffering some other form of chronic disease or those who are vulnerable due to a physical disability.
So it is vital that you take the necessary steps to ensure that you keep warm during the winter.
How to keep warm
There are a range of things that can be done to help keep your home warmer during the winter months. If you need help, you can either contact us or any of the organisations listed at the end of this page. They may also be able to advise you whether a grant may be available to help pay for the work.
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Fit draught proofing to help seal gaps around windows and doors
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Lay insulation in the loft to reduce heat loss
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Ensure your hot water cylinder and pipes are lagged, including pipes in the loft
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Check your heating system is working properly and serviced at least once a year (your gas or electricity supplier may offer free safety checks)
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Make sure you know how to set the heating controls
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If you are buying a new fire or heaters, call the Home Energy Office on 0116 221 1170 to help you choose what is best for your home
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If you’re buying a new open fire, check it has air control to regulate the burning rate
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If you’re buying an electric heater ensure it has a thermostat
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If you’re a tenant, check with your landlord what they can provide, and that there are no restrictions on the types of heater you can have
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Use an electric blanket OR a hot water bottle in bed, but NEVER both together. Many electric blankets are designed only to warm the bed before you get in; if yours is like that, turn it off before you get into bed
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If you can, try to keep a temperature of 21ºC (70ºF) in all the rooms you use during the day. If you can’t, at least keep your living room warm throughout the day and warm your bedroom and bed before going to bed
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Keep your bedroom window closed at night in winter; that’s when temperatures reach their lowest
Financial help for a warmer home - local council grants
If you have a low income, the council may be able to offer financial help for:
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House renovation and improvement, including insulation
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Installing disabled facilities that help people to live independently in their own home
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Home repair assistance for small work
The grant will vary according to the cost of the work and your own financial circumstances.
For more details, either contact us or complete an application form. Or, if you prefer, ask a friend, relative or helper to call on your behalf.
Age Concern or other local organisations (see Useful links below) may be able to help with any paperwork.
If you apply for a grant, don’t start any work before your application is approved.
The council may need to send someone to inspect your home. Always ask for proof of identity before letting anyone in.
The Warm Front Scheme
Grants are available from the Government’s WFS scheme to help older people and some others with the cost of making their homes warmer.
More information: Warm Front Scheme.
Useful links and contacts
You can get advice and further information from a number of other organisations:
If you own your home or privately rent, you could have a range of insulation and heating improvements installed in your home. If you are under 60, this could be up to the value of £1,500 or £2,500 if you are 60 or over.
