The Department of Health has teamed up with Help the Aged, Age Concern, WRVS, Department of Environmental Food and rural Affairs, National Energy Action and the Department for Work and Pensions, to launch a "Keep Warm Keep Well" campaign, aiming to reduce cold-related illnesses and deaths this winter.
Older people and those with chronic heart, lung or other conditions are particularly vulnerable to colder weather.
Some tips on how to keep warm include: keep your home warm, wrap up warm, get a free flu jab, have a healthy diet, keep active, and stop smoking.
An advice line has been set up, number 0800 085 7000 (freephone, 8am until 8pm, Monday-Friday) to help with queries. The Winter Guide is available from the advice line, GPs' surgeries, hospitals, chemists and libraries.
The campaign can also advise on financial help towards insulation and heating, cold weather payments for those on benefits and house renovation grants.
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