Winter often brings some extra challenges. Between managing your care responsibilities and coping with rising energy costs, making sure that you are staying warm feels like another difficult decision. But keeping warm isn’t just about comfort—it’s about health, wellbeing, and ensuring you can continue to provide the best care possible.
Keeping warm matters
Cold weather can have serious health implications. It increases the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and respiratory illnesses. For older adults or those with long-term conditions, the dangers are even greater. Carers often put the person they care for first, but neglecting your own warmth can lead to fatigue, illness, and even hospitalisation.
The NHS recommends keeping your home at 18°C or above, particularly in rooms you use most. This simple step can reduce health risks significantly.
Practical tips for staying warm
Here are some tried-and-tested ways to keep the chill at bay without breaking the bank:
1. Dress in layers
Several thin layers trap heat better than one thick jumper. Thermal tops, leggings, and socks can make a big difference. Don’t forget hats and gloves indoors if you feel the cold easily.
2. Warm your home efficiently
- Close curtains at dusk to keep heat in.
- Use draught excluders on doors and windows.
- Heat the rooms you use most rather than the whole house.
- If possible, set your thermostat to maintain a steady temperature.
3. Make your bed a warm haven
Electric blankets and hot water bottles are great for bedtime warmth. Just follow safety guidelines—never leave electric blankets on overnight unless they’re designed for it.
4. Eat well and stay hydrated
Hot meals like soups and stews provide warmth and energy. Keep up with fluids—even in winter—to support circulation.
5. Keep moving
Light exercise, even chair-based movements, helps generate body heat and improves circulation. A few minutes every hour can make a difference.
6. Stay safe outdoors
If you need to go out, wear sturdy shoes with good grip to avoid slips on icy paths. Layer up and keep trips short if possible.
7. Look after your mental wellbeing
Winter can feel isolating. Combat the blues with natural light, warm drinks, and social contact—even a quick phone call can help lift the spirits.
Financial Help and Grants for Carers in Barnet
We know energy bills are a major worry. Thankfully, there’s help available—both nationally and locally.
National Schemes
Winter Fuel Payment: £100–£300 for those of State Pension age. Paid automatically if eligible.
Warm Home Discount: £150 off electricity bills for low-income households or those on Pension Credit.
Cold Weather Payments: £25 for each 7-day period of severe cold if you receive certain benefits.
Barnet-Specific Support
Barnet Resident Support Fund (BRSF): Grants for essentials like food, energy bills, and household items. Find out more here: Barnet Resident Support Fund | Barnet Council
Free Home Energy Fix (Barnet Council & Green Doctors): Free home energy visits, draught-proofing kits, and advice for households struggling with bills. Find out more here: Barnet’s free home energy fix | Barnet Council.
