With the cost of living crisis at the forefront of everyone’s minds this winter, we’ve accumulated some top tips on how you can stay warm during this years winter crisis. From government grants to layering up warm, there are plenty of alternative options to just relying on your heating this winter.

Warm Home Discount

The Warm Home Discount is in place in England, Wales and Scotland and is available to most pensioners and people who are on a low income and receive certain benefits. The rebate now stands at £150 and until March will automatically be discounted from monthly bills of all those who are eligible, in order to help ease any struggles this winter.

Get active

Being inside during the winter months typically means you’ll be spending a lot more time indoors; however just because you’re inside, doesn’t mean you should stop being active and keeping fit. By doing some light exercise around the house such as walking, jogging on the spot or running up and down the stairs, can all help ensure you keep your heart pumping blood around your body, which will in turn keep you warm.

Cold Weather Payment

The Cold Weather Payment scheme is running from 1st November 2022 to 31st March 2023 to help those living in extreme cold locations. If you currently receive certain benefits or Support for Mortgage Interest and meet the valid requirements, you could be entitled to £25 for each 7 consecutive day period that you experience zero degrees Celsius or below.

Layer up!

Another solution to combatting the cold around the house is to layer up! By adding a pair of fluffy socks, a fleecy jumper and some jogging bottoms to your outfit, can really help to keep your body temperature up during the colder days and nights. As well as this, you could also try adding additional layers to your outfit such as thermal vests to keep the layers thin, yet warm.

Winter Fuel Payment

This government grant is available to those born before 26th September 1956 and means you could receive anything between £250 and £600 to help towards your heating bills. If you’re eligible for this benefit, you will be automatically receiving this payment in addition to any other Cost of Living Payments you are entitled to with your tax credits or benefits.

With the days plummeting in temperature everyday, the number of people catching the flu has drastically risen by over 3,500 patients being admitted into hospitals in England over the past month. Due to this, it’s vital our NHS staff are on the front line caring for patients needs and helping the number of hospital admissions decrease.

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