It’s time to get prepared for the winter season!
As the leaves begin to fall and the temperatures start to drop, it’s important to prioritise your health and well-being.
During this busy period of seasonal celebrations, along with the school half-term, is easy to forget the smaller things. But by thinking ahead and re-stocking medicine cabinets, creating a winter first aid kit, and knowing the right places to go for treatments for minor illnesses, people can make sure they are well-prepared for the colder months. And with the handy use of advice via the NHS 111 online or telephone services, you don’t even need to leave the house! Find lots of information over on our dedicated webpage: www.gmintegratedcare.org.uk/GTKWTG.
Parents of young children can also find help to stay safe and healthy this winter with our handy online guide that can be downloaded at www.gmintegratedcare.org.uk/3-steps-to-keep-healthy. The booklet is packed full of tips and information on how to keep little ones healthy, what to do if they become unwell, and the best place to go for expert advice and help.
The shorter days and colder weather can impact our well-being and for those who may be living with loneliness or experiencing social isolation, such as vulnerable or elderly people, or people dealing with a bereavement, darker days can lead to you feeling that you may need additional help and support. It’s important to look after yourself and others – and remember that support is available to those how who may need it.
Finally, with many facing the challenge of rising costs this winter, people are also reminded of where to go if they need support with accessing a foodbank, along with financial advice. It’s also important to remember that people who live with a long-term condition may be able to save money on prescriptions. If you are on a low income or pay for more than three prescription items in three months, or eleven items in twelve months, you could save money on your prescriptions with a Prescription Prepayment Certificate. People on a low income could be entitled to help with costs or free prescriptions through the low-income scheme, depending on your circumstances. Check your eligibility at www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/check or find out more at www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/ppc.