As cold weather arrives, vulnerable people are being offered free warm clothing by the Council.

Sutton Council has launched the Sutton Warm Scheme to offer support, including free warm clothes and bedding, for anyone who is at risk of getting ill, on benefits or have limited savings.

Your Local Guardian: Snow in Sutton - January 2013

Sutton town centre in snow earlier this year

The council has also worked with Sutton Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) to come up with some tips on how to keep warm.

And Sutton Housing Partnership, which manages the council's housing stock, is working with Age UK to make sure elderly people in its properties are aware of the risks and looked after.

Councillor Colin Stears said: "Keeping warm during the winter can be a real problem for some of our more vulnerable residents.

"That’s why we offering advice on how to keep warm and support through our Sutton Warm Scheme.

"Sutton has a great tradition of communities looking after each other, and if you feel like you need some support to keep warm, or have a neighbour who may need some help, please give us a call."

Five tips on staying warm this winter:

1) Heat your home well - homes should be heated to between 18C and 21C. If you are cold at night you can use an electric blanket or a hot water bottle.

2) Get financial support - There are grants, benefits and sources of advice available to make your home more energy efficient, keep your home warm or get help with bills. Call 020 8770 5070 to find out if you qualify.

3) Eat well and have plenty of fluids - Food and water provide energy to keep your body warm.

4) Get a flu jab - you can get a free flu jab through your GP if you are over 65, pregnant or have health issues.

5) Look after yourself and others - avoid going outside on the coldest days and wrap up warm wearing sturdy footwear to prevent slips if you do. If you have vulnerable neighbours, visit them to make sure they are safe and well.

To find out if you qualify for the council's Sutton Warm Scheme, call 020 8770 5000 or email warmroom@sutton.gov.uk.


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