Keep warm keep well

Cold weather can have a serious impact on the health of older and more vulnerable people. As well as the risk of hypothermia as a direct result of cold temperatures, there's an increased risk of heart attack, stroke and worsening of chronic lung conditions.

When the weather gets very cold, it is essential that you do all you can to keep warm and keep well.

For weather updates, tune into your local BBC radio station.

There may be extra money that you can claim to help with the cost of heating and insulating your home. Visit Gov.uk's section on heating and benefits to find out what's available and how to claim.

Feeling unwell?

Call NHS Direct on 0845 4647 (24 hours a day, seven days a week) for health advice and information.

Local Sandwell organisations

Age UK Sandwell

Age UK Sandwell offers a range of services for older people, including benefit checks, advice on help with heating, day centres and lunch clubs. Find out more on Age UK Sandwell's website.
Tel: 0121 500 1860

Agewell

Agewell gives a voice to people in Sandwell aged 50 plus.
Tel: 0121 289 3038

Private housing

For information about home repairs for private tenants and homeowners.
Tel: 0121 569 5262

Home Accident Prevention Service

Be safe in your home by having a free personal safety check.
Tel: 0121 507 6341

Welfare Rights

Free confidential benefits check.
Tel: 0121 569 3158