Keeping warm this winter

Three Rivers District Council has teamed up with partners across Hertfordshire again this winter to help people keep warm.

Do you know someone who is vulnerable and struggling to keep their home warm or is too afraid of the cost of the bills to turn their heating on? Keep Warm Stay Well may be able to help. Contact HertsHelp on 0300 123 4044 or email info@hertshelp.net

The World Health Organisation recommends that if you are older, have young children or have a long term health condition, then you should heat your living room to 21 degrees during the day and the bedroom to 18 degrees at night.  Being too cold can have a real impact on your health, and there is an increase at this time of year of cold related hospital admissions and last year there were nearly 500 excess winter deaths in Hertfordshire. 

If you, or a relative or neighbour, want to stay warm, happy, and healthy in your own home this winter then there is help available to support you. The campaign is aiming to help those who are particularly at risk including over-75s, those who have a long term health condition, and those are struggling to pay energy bills and have young children.

Help available includes:A free energy efficiency check

• Home insulation, draught proofing, emergency heaters and help to improve your heating
• Advice on paying bills, grants, benefits and extra money you may be entitled to
• Advice and practical support to help you stay well and active during the winter
• Free easy-to-read thermometers (available from Three Rivers House and other community buildings)