Top tips for keeping that lockdown community spirit going as the weather gets colder, courtesy of Buckinghamshire Integrated Care Partnership.
Find out more at https://www.yourcommunityyourcare.org.uk/
If you’re interested in setting up or helping with a Good Neighbour’s Group for Bellingdon/Asheridge area please get in touch: contact@bellingdon.com
Keep warm in winter
Cold weather can affect your health. Get advice on reducing fuel bills or making your home warmer through the Simple Energy Advice Helpline or call 0800 444 202.
- Winter fuel payments from the government
- Cold weather payments from the government
- Keep warm, keep well leaflet
- Stay Well This Winter
- Advice for older people from Age UK to stay safe and healthy in winter
- Be ready for emergencies with this app from the British Red Cross
Be a good neighbour
If you want to help elderly or frail neighbours but are not sure how, try these simple steps. You can do these all at a safe distance and they can make a huge difference:
- Say ‘hello’ – simple human contact is vital for our general wellbeing.
- Ask – not everyone will ask for help, but it doesn’t mean they don’t need it.
- Medicines – ask if they have a good supply of medication to get through a period of severe weather or bank holidays. Offer to collect them.
- Shopping – in very cold or icy conditions it may be safer to stay indoors. Ask if you can get any essentials they need or to top up their gas or electric meter.
- Know the signs – not seen a neighbour for a while? Are their curtains always drawn? Is there milk still on the doorstep or mail in the door? They may need help. Don’t wait. Knock on the door and check if they are ok.
If you need to speak to someone urgently about a vulnerable adult:
- Report abuse: 0800 137 915
- Speak to our adult social care team:01296 383 204
- Outside office hours: 0800 999 7677
If it is an emergency and they need immediate help call 999
Rough sleepers
If you have seen a rough sleeper and they are aged over 18 years, you should send an alert to StreetLink. Their details will be sent to the local authority or outreach service for the area where you saw the person. They will try to find the person and connect them to support.
If you have seen a rough sleeper and they are aged under 18 years, call the police. Do not contact StreetLink.
Community action and volunteering
View the guidance on community action during severe weather.