Did you know that feeling cold in your home can have an impact on your health? When the temperature outside drops below 8C, it is important to heat your home to at least 16C, but 18C if possible.
The Office for National Statistics have estimated 50,100 excess winter deaths within England and Wales for the 2017 to 2018 winter period, the highest recorded since winter of 1975 and daily winter deaths within the last winter exceeded the five year average.
The cold weather affects everyone, and healthy people can become prone to winter illnesses such as colds, sore throats and flu. The cold can be very detrimental for those who are vulnerable, however.
The NHS recommend that homes should be heated to at least 18C if you are vulnerable to the cold.
When the weather drops below 8C, you may be at an increased risk of heart attack, stroke, flu, pneumonia, falls and injuries and hypothermia. The cold can affect anyone, but those who are aged 65 or older, are on a low income, have a long-term health condition, are disabled, pregnant or have a mental health condition are more likely to be affected by the cold.
Andrews Heat for Hire are working in partnership with Charlton Athletic Community Trust (CACT) to help vulnerable people to heat their homes through the Stay Warm Stay Safe project.
This project, commissioned by the Royal Borough of Greenwich, supports residents within the Borough, but CACT can also support those in Lewisham, Southwark, Bromley and Bexley.
This project supports residents who feel cold in their home, but also those who have other issues - such as damp or mould - which could be caused by a cold home. This programme offers oil-filled electric radiators supplied by Andrews Heat for Hire, benefits advice, free room thermometers, a visit by the green doctor and more. Get in touch with Live Well Greenwich on 0800 470 4831 for support.