Working together to support good health and wellbeing this winter

Health organisations across Suffolk and north east Essex are working together to ensure NHS and community-based services are ready to meet growing demand this winter.

Pharmacy First, greater use of virtual wards and the continuation of the winter vaccination campaign are set to benefit patients in the weeks and months ahead.

Clinicians say winter is always a busy time with seasonal illnesses including COVID-19 and flu and colder weather taking its toll on those with existing conditions.

But this year’s campaign also focuses on highlighting additional local support available to help people stay warm and well with links to Citizen’s Advice Bureau websites, information about possible sources of funds, warm hubs and foodbanks.

It lists some essential ways that residents can stay healthy, warm, and well this winter, including: 

• Getting their flu, COVID-19 and RSV vaccinations as soon as they’re offered them
• Keeping themselves well by staying warm, keeping active, and keeping a well-stocked medicine cabinet so they are prepared for common winter illnesses 
• Advice for people who look after someone at home and how to set up an emergency carer plan 
• Signposting people to financial support that is available and providing tips on how to make homes more energy efficient
• Raising awareness of pension credit – people over state pension age and on a low income could be eligible for pension credit to help with living costs. Find out more at gov.uk/pension-credit or call 0800 99 1234
• Encouraging use of the range of NHS services available across Suffolk and north east Essex, including the NHS 111 service and Pharmacy First
• Supporting people to look after their wellbeing and mental health. 

Dr Ruth Bushaway, Deputy Medical Director at the NHS Suffolk and North East Essex ICB, said: “With the cold weather about to take hold, it is timely that we increase awareness of the services and support available across Suffolk and north east Essex to help people stay well.

“We also have information about how best to access support available relating to the ongoing cost of living pressures.”

NHS Suffolk and North East Essex Integrated Care Board is sharing advice with GP practices and Patient Participation Groups, promoting messages through newspaper and radio adverts as well as including advice on its website and social media platforms.

For more information about this year’s winter campaign, please visit www.sneevaccine.org.uk/this-winter