A campaign to help people survive the winter by staying warm and healthy is being launched this week.

The 2016 Winter Survival campaign, organised by the city council’s Healthy Homes team, will be launched in the Radio Merseyside foyer, Hanover Street, on Wednesday 26 October (11am to 2pm).

This is a drop-in event aimed at elderly residents at which a number of agencies will be providing information and guidance to help people cope during the cold weather.

Councillor Gerard Woodhouse, Mayoral lead for Older People, said:

“This is one of the most important initiatives we are involved in because, during the winter months, we have deaths which could be avoided and this campaign is aimed at avoiding that.

“All the organisations taking part want to get messages out about how our older people can stay warm, safe and active during the winter months.

“There is a lot of information, advice and support available on a whole range of issues – from dealing with concerns over energy bills to how to access various health services and I would hope as many people as possible take advantage of this event.

“While the city council and its partners try and ensure that vulnerable people are looked after we can all play our part by looking out for our neighbours during any cold weather.”

At the launch information will be provided by a number of agencies including:

 

• Healthy Homeswill be providing information about how to keep warm and safe during the winter months and will be giving away winter warmth items.

 

• Public Health – Information about the flu jab and out of hours services.

 

• The Fire Service will explain the importance of having annual gas safety checks to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning,

 

• Fuel Poverty – advice for people who are spending more than 10% of their income on fuel bills.

 

• Local Solutions – information about services, including shopmobility, fuel debt, and support for carers.

 

• CAB – will provide free, independent and confidential advice on debt, consumer and legal issues.

 

• Smoke Free Liverpool – a free stop-smoking service

 

• PSS Health Trainers – offering blood pressure checks and advice

 

• VNC Lifeline – a 24 hour personal alarm service for the elderly and vulnerable

 

• Imagine–a vocational support service for people with mental health issues

 

Following the launch the campaign will be taken out into the city where a number of roadshows and sessions at luncheon clubs will be held to get the winter survival message to as many people as possible.