Article date – 23 October 2018
Elderly and infirm people, and young children are at risk when the temperature starts to drop. In 2016-2017 there were an estimated 34,300 excess winter deaths in England and Wales – while more than one-third of deaths were caused by respiratory diseases which can be made worse by the cold.
That’s why each year St Helens Council, Age UK Mid Mersey and local partners undertake a Winter Warmer campaign, handing out free winter survival packs and information to residents on the best ways to stay safe, warm and well – while saving money and becoming more energy efficient.
This year’s campaign, which will see around 6,000 packs distributed in total, was officially launched in St Helens Town Hall last week where around 350 people had the opportunity to access a number of council and external services, all while enjoying a lovely cup of hot soup.
Packs will be available to collect at informative library events throughout November, and contain a range of winter essentials, including, gloves, tea bags, torches, water bottles and 2019 calendars full of useful information.
Collect yours at:
Chester Lane Library: Monday 12 November, 10:15am-12:15pm
Parr Library: Tuesday 13 November, 10:15am- 12:15pm
Rainford Library: Thursday 15 November, 10:15am-12:15pm
Billinge Library: Friday 15 November, 10:15am-12:15pm
Newton-le-Willows Library: Monday 19 November, 10:15am-12:15pm
Peter Street Library: Tuesday 20 November, 1:30pm-3:30pm
Garswood Library: Thursday 22 November, 1:30pm-3:30pm
Eccleston Library: Friday 23 November, 10:15am-12:15pm
Haydock Library: Monday 26 November, 10:15am-12:15pm
Thatto Heath Library: Wednesday 28 November, 10:15am-12:15pm
Moss Bank Library: Thursday 29 November, 1:30pm-3:30pm
Rainhill Library: Friday 30 November, 10:15am-12:15pm
Being too cold can cause serious problems for your breathing if you have a bad chest. Sitting for long periods in a cold home can put pressure on your heart and blood circulation too – leading to very serious problems such heart attacks and strokes.
The council is also urging residents to keep an eye on older friends, neighbours and relatives as winter starts to tighten its grip.
Call the St Helens Cold Weather Advice Line on 08000 355 878 for further help with keeping warm.
Photo caption: The Mayor and Mayoress of St Helens, Councillor Pat Ireland and Lynn Glover, pictured with Andrea Thomson (end right) and Helen O’Mahony (end left) from Age UK Mid Mersey.
