Practice Newsletter – October 2025
Keeping Warm This Winter
Staying warm is crucial for your health, especially for older people and those with long-term health conditions. Here are some simple tips to help you keep warm:
- Layer Up: Wear several thin layers of clothing rather than one thick one. This traps warm air more effectively.
- Warm Your Home: Aim to heat your main living areas to at least 18°C (64°F). If you’re struggling to heat your home, please see the section below on financial support.
- Eat Well, Stay Active: Hot meals and drinks can help you stay warm, and gentle exercise can improve your circulation.
- Check for Draughts: Block draughts from windows and doors to prevent heat loss.
- Get Your Flu Jab: Protect yourself from seasonal illnesses by getting your annual flu vaccination. Contact the surgery to book your appointment if you haven’t already.
Food Bank Support
If you are struggling to afford food, food banks can provide emergency food and support. Accessing a food bank typically requires a referral. Here’s how you can seek help:
- Citizens Advice: Your local Citizens Advice bureau can offer guidance and help you obtain a food bank voucher. You can find your nearest Citizens Advice office by visiting their website or calling their national helpline.
- Direct Contact: Some food banks allow direct self-referrals, or you can find information on how to get help on their websites, such as The Trussell Trust or Independent Food Aid Network (IFAN).
- September newsletter: Our September newsletter here on our website lists some local food banks where support can be given.
Winter Fuel Payment
The Winter Fuel Payment is an annual tax-free payment from the government to help with heating costs. Most payments for winter 2025 to 2026 are expected to be made automatically in November or December 2025. You could get between £250 and £600 to help you pay your heating bills for winter 2025 to 2026. Eligibility typically depends on your age (born before a specific date) and whether you receive certain benefits.
To find out more about eligibility and how to claim, please visit the official government website: Winter Fuel Payment Information: https://www.gov.uk/winter-fuel-payment
Go Sober this October
Are you going sober this October? Giving up alcohol for even a few days can be beneficial to your health in the long term. While you might not get to wear a cape, you may benefit from a clearer head, weight loss and better sleep.
This clever alcohol calculator will show you how much you’d gain financially and the calories you’d save! Go Sober Alcohol Calculator
Why not give sober a try? Go Sober for October
Staff recognition
Happy Halloween!🐈⬛🕸️
Finally, as October draws to a close, we wish all our patients a safe and enjoyable Halloween! If you’re celebrating, please remember to take care, especially when trick-or-treating with children.
