Cold snap in Southend -stay warm

Cold and stormy weather can have a serious impact on health, particularly for older people, young children, and those with long-term health conditions.

In Southend, there is currently an amber weather warning for ice and cold, so extra care is needed over the coming days.

When temperatures fall, the risk of illnesses such as flu, chest infections, heart attacks and strokes increases. Cold homes can also worsen conditions like asthma, arthritis and high blood pressure.

Keeping warm helps your body fight infection, keeps your blood pressure stable, and reduces the risk of falls caused by icy conditions.

Ways to keep warm at home

• Heat your main living areas to at least 18°C if you can

• Wear several thin layers of clothing rather than one thick one

• Keep doors and windows closed to prevent draughts

• Hot food and drinks help maintain body temperature

• Keep active indoors – even gentle movement can help keep you warm

  
  

Staying safe during icy and stormy weather

• Avoid unnecessary travel during icy conditions if possible

• Take extra care when walking outdoors, wear sturdy shoes with good grip

• Keep paths and steps clear of ice where you can, using grit or salt

• Keep essential supplies at home, including medication, food and a torch

  
  

Knowing where to get the right health help

Choosing the right service helps you get care faster and keeps emergency services available for those who need them most:

• NHS 111: for urgent health advice when it’s not an emergency

• Your local pharmacy: for advice and treatment for minor illnesses

• Your GP surgery: for ongoing or non-urgent health concerns

• A&E or 999: for emergencies such as chest pain, severe breathing problems, stroke

  symptoms, or serious injuries

  
  

Your experiences matter

If you or someone you care for has struggled to access healthcare, or if you’ve received great support you want to highlight, we want to hear from you.📧 Email: info@healthwatchsouthend.co.uk or Telephone: 01702 416 320

Happy New Year from Healthwatch Southend

Useful links

Street link: If you see someone sleeping outside in Southend, making a report will alert local outreach teams so they can offer support and accommodation where possible.

Street link

NHS seasonal health advice including for vaccinations is available from the link below

NHS advice

SAV's and cadent are running winter ready information stalls at Southend libraries in January and February, to see dates and find out more link the link below

Energy advice