CORNWALL Council and 30 partner organisations have launched a winter well-being programme.  

Anyone can call a single phone number and get help and advice on topics including insulation, switching energy tariffs to save money and emergency funds for vulnerable people who can’t afford to heat their homes.

Last year, managers say the winter well-being programme helped more than 1,400 homes with advice and support. Sixty-four hospital admissions were avoided and 254 homes were given emergency support to heat their homes.

Dr Caroline Court, interim director for Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Public Health, said winter well-being was a significant problem for many people in Cornwall.

‘We have just published our public health annual report which has a strong focus on the connection between homes and people’s health.

‘Being able to heat a home is not just about keeping warm. Keeping a house warm and dry helps keep away mould which can make illnesses such as asthma worse. Reducing energy costs and debts can help to reduce stress levels and improve mental well-being.

‘Keeping warm is vital to staying healthy, particularly for those who are more vulnerable to the cold such as the elderly and people with a long-term health condition. For every £1 that we spend with the Winter Well-being programme we help to save the NHS £3.15.’

Liskeard Cllr Sally Hawken, Cabinet member for well-being and public health, said one of the Council’s top priorities was to help prevent illness and deaths from the cold weather.

‘From setting your heating temperature correctly through to making sure you are on the right energy tariff to draught proofing your home, there are lots of simple things people can do to stay well and warm.’

The winter guides are available in hard copy at GP surgeries, One Stop Shops, libraries, health centres, dentists, food banks, pharmacies and children’s centres or are available online at www.cornwall.gov.uk/winterwellbeing