A new 15-minute bitesize winter preparedness webinar from Leeds City Council Public Health is now available. It’s designed for anyone supporting vulnerable people – including VCSE organisations, housing providers, frontline staff and volunteers.
You can watch the webinar on YouTube and use it in team meetings, inductions or as part of winter briefings.
Watch the webinar:
Winter Preparedness – Public Health Leeds (YouTube)
What the webinar covers (key points):
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How cold weather affects health – even at 4–8°C – increasing risks of heart attacks, strokes, respiratory illness, hypothermia and falls
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The concept of excess winter deaths and why many are preventable
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The importance of keeping indoor temperatures at 18°C or above, particularly for people with long-term conditions
Nine key winter messages:
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Get winter vaccinations (flu and COVID-19 if eligible)
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Check your medicines and don’t run out during cold snaps
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Keep your home warm – and know where to get energy efficiency support
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Seek advice early if you’re struggling with bills or heating
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Keep active and seek support if worried about falls
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Eat well and keep warm with hot food and drinks
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Ask for help – there are services and community organisations that can support
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Stay connected to reduce isolation and protect mental health
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Be prepared for cold spells – plan ahead for travel, food and heating
The webinar also highlights key local services and resources, including:
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Home Plus Leeds – minor repairs, home adaptations, heating and energy advice
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Active Leeds – activities to support strength, balance and self-management
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Together Leeds – cost of living support, money and housing advice
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MindWell – mental health information and service directory
You’ll also find information on the Heat Health Alert system, cold weather action cards, and local “winter friends” resources and resource bags available via the Public Health Resource Centre.
