Winter can affect our health, finances and wellbeing. Cold weather can make some long-term health conditions worse, while shorter days and rising household costs can make it harder to stay active, eat well and keep warm. This guide brings together practical advice and support available to people across Gloucestershire.

Take early action if you start to feel unwell, especially if you have a long-term health condition. Community pharmacies, NHS 111 and local health services can help you get the right advice and treatment.

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Vaccination is one of the best ways to reduce your risk of becoming seriously unwell from respiratory illnesses during winter.

  • Check whether you are eligible for seasonal flu, COVID-19 or other NHS vaccinations.
  • Take up vaccination when invited and speak to your GP surgery or community pharmacy if you are unsure.
  • Wash your hands regularly, cover coughs and sneezes, and stay at home if you have a high temperature or feel too unwell for normal activities.

Useful links: NHS vaccinations and when to have them | Flu jabs in Gloucestershire

Your local community pharmacy can give confidential clinical advice and treatment for many common health conditions. For some conditions, pharmacists can provide prescription medicine without you needing to see a GP first.

  • Ask a pharmacist about coughs, colds, sore throats, aches, pains and other minor illnesses.
  • Use Pharmacy First for eligible conditions, including sinusitis, sore throat, earache, infected insect bites, impetigo, shingles and uncomplicated urinary tract infections in women aged 16 to 64. Age criteria apply.
  • You do not usually need an appointment, and pharmacies have private consultation rooms.

Useful links: Find a pharmacy | Pharmacy First in Gloucestershire

Shorter days, darker evenings and spending more time indoors can affect mood and increase loneliness. Reaching out for support can be an important first step.

  • Make the most of daylight, stay connected with people you trust and keep a regular daily routine.
  • Ask for help if you feel low, anxious, overwhelmed or unable to cope.
  • Call 999 or go to A&E if there is an immediate danger to life.

Useful links: Be Well Gloucestershire | On Your Mind Gloucestershire | NHS Every Mind Matters

Living in a cold or damp home can affect your health and make some conditions worse. If you are older or have a health condition, aim to heat your home to at least 18°C.

  • Heat the rooms you use most and wear several thin layers of clothing.
  • Get advice if you are struggling with energy bills, heating or damp.
  • Use a local warm space if you need somewhere safe and welcoming to spend time.

Useful links: Warm and Well | Warm Welcome spaces

Cold weather and darker days can increase isolation, particularly for older people, unpaid carers and people who are less able to leave home.

  • Check in with older or vulnerable relatives, friends and neighbours.
  • Ask whether they are warm enough and have food, medicines and other essentials.
  • Encourage anyone who is struggling to use trusted local support.

Useful links: Age UK Gloucestershire | Gloucestershire Carers Hub

Regular movement supports physical health, mental wellbeing, strength and balance. You can stay active outdoors, at home or through a local group.

  • Choose activities suitable for your health, mobility and the weather.
  • Build movement into your day, even if you start with short sessions.
  • Take care on icy paths and wear suitable footwear and visible clothing.

Useful links: We Can Move | Ramblers Wellbeing Walks

A balanced diet helps you maintain energy, strength and general health. This is particularly important for older people, anyone who is frail, and people at risk of unplanned weight loss.

  • Try to eat regular meals and include a range of protein, fruit, vegetables and starchy foods.
  • Seek advice if you are losing weight without trying, have little interest in food, feel weak or are taking longer to recover from illness.
  • Use local food support if household costs are making it difficult to eat well.

Useful links: Healthy Start | Find a Gloucestershire food bank

Help is available if you are struggling to afford food, energy or other essentials. It is worth checking what financial support and benefits you may be entitled to, even if you work, have savings or own your home.

  • Check whether you qualify for benefits, energy support or emergency welfare assistance.
  • Ask for advice early if you are worried about debt or cannot meet essential costs.
  • Use trusted organisations and be cautious of unexpected messages asking for personal or banking information.

Useful links: Citizens Advice | Gloucestershire Welfare Support Scheme

Digital services can make it easier to access health information and NHS services, but not everyone has a device, internet access or confidence online. Free local help is available.

  • Visit a Gloucestershire Digi Hub for friendly support with devices, internet access and digital skills.
  • Use the NHS App to order repeat prescriptions, view parts of your health record and access other NHS services where available.
  • Never share passwords or security codes. Pause and check if an online request feels suspicious.

Useful links: Gloucestershire Digital Hubs | NHS App

Seek advice as soon as you start to feel unwell, particularly if you have a long-term health condition. Choosing the right service can help you get the care you need more quickly.

  • Use self-care and ask your community pharmacy for advice about minor illnesses.
  • Contact your GP surgery if symptoms are not improving or you need help with an ongoing condition.
  • Use NHS 111 online or call 111 if you need medical help now and are not sure what to do.
  • Call 999 for a life-threatening emergency.

Useful links: Starting to feel unwell | NHS 111 online

Our Stay well this winter playlist brings together practical advice to help you and your family stay healthy during the colder months. Watch our short videos for tips on managing common winter illnesses, using local NHS services and getting the right care when you need it.