Helping each other to stay well this winter

To mark Self Care Week, we're encouraging people to be well-prepared ahead of winter by taking simple steps to look after themselves and helping their families, friends and neighbours to do the same.
snowflake

This year, the theme for Self Care Week is ‘Choose Self Care for Life’ and preparing now for the winter ahead will help people, particularly those who are elderly or vulnerable, to stay as well as possible.

This means trying to stay active even when the weather is colder, and eating a balanced diet. Wiltshire Council’s health trainers can help people every step of the way – the service is for people aged 18 + and is free. They can also help you find other services and activities to keep you healthy and well over winter.
 
For more information visit www.wiltshire.gov.uk/public-health-trainers or call 0300 003 4566.
 
There are also benefits and grants available to help with energy efficiency, such as cavity wall insulation to help keep homes warm. Call Warm & Safe Wiltshire on 0800 038 5722 or visit www.warmandsafewiltshire.org.uk for more information.
 
Jerry Wickham, Wiltshire Council cabinet member for public health, said:

“It’s also sensible to check on vulnerable neighbours and relatives and ensure they have everything they need to stay safe and warm. Sometimes, simply offering to do the shopping for someone can make a big difference.
 
“There is a lot of support available to help people to stay safe, healthy, warm and out of hospital this winter and beyond.”

Dr Andrew Girdher, GP at Box Surgery, explains:

“We’re encouraging people to be proactive with their own self-care, to help them stay as healthy as possible and to know where to go if they do need health care advice.
 
“Healthcare services are put under enormous pressure over the winter months and by doing what you can to look after yourself where you can, helps to free up valuable practitioner time to see those people who really need to be seen.”

Step by step guide

NHS Wiltshire Clinical Commissioning Group has created an easy-to-use eight-step guide, to help people know what simple steps they can take to help keep themselves well over the winter months.
 
S – see your pharmacist at first sign of illness
E – eat plenty of fruit and vegetables
L – learn more about around the clock healthcare services in Wiltshire
F – find out if you’re eligible for a free flu vaccine
C – check in on your neighbours
A – arrange to pick up your prescription
R – restock your medicine cabinet 
E – ensure you stay warm