Get in the know this winter
We have brought together all the information you will need to keep well and get healthcare over the autumn and winter period.
The information is for everyone, but some parts will be of particular relevance for people who are at increased risk when the weather turns colder, such as older people, those with long term conditions and pregnant women. The cold weather can make some health conditions worse and increases the risk of raised blood pressure, heart attacks and strokes. Slips and falls are also more likely.
On this page
Featured topic
Stay well this winter: Ask your pharmacist
Top tips to keep safe and well this winter
Staying well
Vaccinations
- Vaccinations are the best way to protect yourself from becoming seriously unwell and it is even more important to get vaccinated if you are at increased risk.
- Make sure you are up-to-date with any vaccinations you are eligible for.
- Covid-19, flu and RSV are more prevalent in the autumn and winter months, so at this time of year these vaccines are important, but you may also be able to get vaccinated against pertussis (whooping cough), MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) and a many other illnesses.
- You can find out more and check which vaccinations you are eligible for using our online vaccinations information hub.
Stop the spread of infection
- If you have visitors, ventilate the room for a few minutes before and after they arrive to stop the spread of germs.
- Washing your hands regularly can help to protect yourself and others from viruses such as flu and Covid-19.
- Stay at home if you are unwell to reduce the number of people you have contact with.
- Get vaccinated to reduce the spread of illness in the community.
Prescriptions and medicines
- If you take prescription medication, keep a close eye on how much medication you have left and order your repeat prescriptions in plenty of time from your GP practice (at least two full working days).
- You can order your prescription using your NHS App or account, other online services offered by your GP practice or by contacting your practice.
- If you have multiple items on your prescription, only order what you need.
- Make sure you take any medication as prescribed to prevent any health conditions from deteriorating.
- If you are experiencing difficulties with your medication, arrange an appointment with a clinical pharmacist or doctor at your GP practice, to have your medication reviewed.
- If you are prescribed antibiotics, take them as directed.
- If you use an inhaler, it is important to check you are using it correctly, even if you have used one for some time. You can check your technique using our handy videos.
- If your child uses an inhaler, your can follow our four-step guide to help keep them well.
Keeping warm
- Keep your home warm.
- Try to heat rooms you spend a lot of time in to at least 18 degrees C.
- Reduce drafts and keep your bedroom windows closed at night.
- Wearing several layers of thinner clothing could keep your warmer than one thicker layer.
- Try not to sit still for more than an hour or so.
- Ensure you are eating enough and having hot drinks.
- If you struggle to heat your home for financial reasons, there may be grants and support available to help you through local councils.
- Local councils also provide warm spaces in community locations such as libraries.
Councils in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland
Other useful links
Look out for others
Some people may need extra help over winter. Remember to check in on older neighbours, friends and family members to see if they need anything.
Icy pavements and cold weather can stop people from going out. Keeping stocked up with food for a few days is advised in case they cannot go out.
If they do need to go out, encourage them to wear shoes with a good grip and a scarf around the mouth to protect them from cold air.
Getting the right care
In the autumn and winter, health services tend to be busier than normal. At this time of year, it is more important than ever that people follow the advice that the NHS gives all year round to help you get the right care as quickly as possible.
- Consider whether you can treat the illness and injury yourself, or with support from NHS 111 online, the NHS App or a local pharmacy.
- If it’s urgent, contact your GP practice, use NHS 111 or go to a local urgent care service.
- There are a wide range of services in your local community to support you with your mental health and wellbeing.
- The Emergency Department and 999 is for life threatening emegencies.
- Even if services are busy and you need help, don’t delay coming forward for care.
Looking after your mental health and wellbeing
Neighbourhood Mental Health Cafés
There are Neighbourhood Mental Health Cafés spread around Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland, run by trained and supportive staff, who are there to listen and provide the practical support when you need it most. If you’re struggling with your mental health, they can help you make plans so you feel safer, explain who you can turn to for help locally and help you to manage your own mental health so you can start to feel more in control.
Support is tailored to individuals’ needs but could include:
• A safe and relaxing space where you can be yourself and take part in gentle activities
• One-to-one support with a member of our team to explore ways to cope and how to manage your mental health
• Practical advice and information about other services that might be helpful to you for longer-term support
Joy
Joy is a new NHS funded website for people living in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland. It has been created to link you to groups, services and activities that suit your needs and interests, local to you. Once you add your postcode and search, it will list the services closest to you.
Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust
You can find more mental health and wellbeing support on Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust’s website, including:
- Information on urgent mental health support
- Downloadable resources
- Signposting
- Support for children & young people.
Being prepared
Get Weather Ready
You can take some simple steps to help you prepare for and respond to the weather.
The Met Offices’ Weather Ready campaign provides a wealth of advice to keep you safe and well.
Be flood aware
Some areas of Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland have flooded in recent months. The best way to protect yourself from flooding is early preparation and knowing what to do in advance.
- Check your long-term flood risk. You can use this free service to find out the long-term flood risk for where you live, the possible causes of flooding, and how to manage flood risk.
- Sign up for flood warnings by phone, text or email.
- Find out how to protect yourself from future flooding.