Keep warm reminder

From Solihull Partnership

Elderly and vulnerable residents in Solihull are being reminded that there is help at hand to make sure that they can keep warm during the current cold snap.

Local organisations including Solihull Council, Solihull NHS Care Trust, Age Concern Solihull, Solihull Community Housing, West Midlands Fire Service, Citizens Advice Bureau, the Pension Service and Hestia, have all joined forces to try and make sure people have the help and advice they need to be warm enough in their homes.

The Winter Warmth Helpline has been set up on 0121 704 8080 for vulnerable residents who need urgent help such as:

• Finding a tradesperson for emergency repairs

• Help with an emergency heater if the central heating system breaks down

• An electric blanket if they cannot afford to heat their bedroom

• Warm clothing if they are struggling to afford it

• Emergency food supplies

• Debt advice and assistance to pay bills.

People can also get general advice about their energy bills, and the grants and loans available for installing insulation or replacing central heating by calling the Energy Saving Trust Advice Centre on 0800 512 012.

Cabinet Member for Health, Social Care and Partnerships, Councillor Bob Sleigh said: “As the current cold snap is set to continue we are aware that this can cause concerns for our elderly and vulnerable residents who feel worried about the costs of turning up their heating.

“We want people to know that they are not alone this winter and there is help on offer to make sure that they can stay warm and healthy in their homes. I would urge anyone with concerns to phone our new helpline and I would also ask other residents for their help in keeping an eye on their older and vulnerable friends or neighbours this winter,” adds Councillor Sleigh.

Anne Hastings, Chief Executive Officer of Age Concern added: “Age Concern Solihull wholeheartedly supports the Solihull Winter Warmth Campaign and urges older people and vulnerable families who find themselves in difficulties this winter to contact the Winter Warmth Hotline.”

Top tips for keeping warm this winter:

• Keep internal doors closed to stop draughts.

• Have at least one hot meal and hot drinks throughout

• Layer up-many layers of clothing are best.

• Do light chair exercises or move around indoors.

• Use an electric blanket or hot water bottle.

• Close curtains at dusk.

• Ensure your heating is 21C in your main living room and 18C in other rooms used.

• Keep your heating at 18C overnight.

• If you receive benefits, ring your energy supplier to check if they have a social tariff

• Pay your bills by direct debit to spread the cost.

• Join your energy supplier’s priority register scheme.