As autumn slips into winter we've all noticed Jack Frost nipping at our noses! With that in mind we thought we'd share our top tips for keeping warm and well this winter.

Be germ aware! Obviously everyone is more virus aware now than ever before, but if you haven't already had your flu vaccine then you may want to consider it. Practice good hand hygiene and carry hand sanitiser with you when you're out and about.

Keep warm when out and about! Did you know that wearing multiple layers is more effective at keeping you warm than one thick layer? Also don't forget your hat as we lose the most body heat from our heads. Gloves and thick socks are essential items especially for those with poor circulation.

Think food and drink! Keeping your body well fuelled with a daily hot meal and a balanced diet will give you much needed energy for combating the cold.

Keep your kitchen well stocked to avoid frequent trips to the shops in adverse weather. Similarly keep yourself well hydrated as this reduces the risk of a wide range of issues including falls and infections. Enjoy hot drinks during hot weather too.

Move more! Be mindful to keep moving. If mobility is an issue for you then think about how you can move more in your chair.

Keep your home cosy! Ensure your home is warm enough with your living areas at around 21 degrees and your bedroom as degree or two cooler. Keep your boiler healthy with a regular service and bleed your radiators to allow the hot water in them to circulate.

Heating Help! If you need help with heating costs your local Age UK office can give advice on winter fuel payments and discounts.

Prioritise yourself! Did you know that people with extra communication, access or safety needs can register themselves (or be registered) as priority services customers with Western Power?

By joining their free priority services register they can:

• Give you a direct number to call in the event of a power cut so you can get straight through to them

• Agree a password with you before they visit, so you feel safe

• Provide special help, if needed, through the British Red Cross

• Inform you about planned interruptions to your electricity supply

• Keep you as informed as possible in the event of an unplanned power cut

There are a number of ways you can be added to the register. You can join over the phone by calling 0800 096 3080 Monday - Friday 8:30am - 5pm.

Join online here.

Write to Priority Customer Services, Records Team, Western Power Distribution, Lostwithiel Road, Bodmin, Cornwall, PL31 1DE or email [email protected].

Some people with physical, mental or cognitive difficulties may struggle to manage some or all of these factors independently.

For those who need some extra support to stay safe and well now may be a good time to introduce a little bit of outside support. We are on hand to fill in the gaps by providing high quality and unhurried companionship led care.

Call us on 01395 200600 to find out how we can help this winter or explore our website www.homeinstead.co.uk/eastdevon to see more about our services.