During the wintery months, it's really important to keep warm and stay healthy.

There is currently an amber cold-health alert in place for the West Midlands until 6pm on Saturday 23 November 2024.

Make sure you know how to stay warm and well in the cold and check in on vulnerable friends and neighbours.

Read the NHS Black Country Integrated Care Board information and advice following this cold weather alert.

Advice on help for rough sleepers

Keeping warm and well

Keeping warm throughout winter is really important. Simple things like wearing more layers, getting up and about all help to keep the cold at bay.

"Keep warm, keep well" is an NHS publication that has lots of advice for keeping warm during the winter months. You can also visit one of our Welcoming Spaces across Sandwell.

Visit the NHS website for more information on winter vaccinations and winter health.

Our Healthy Sandwell website also has some key advice and information for winter wellness.

Fighting flu

Flu is much more serious than a cold, and can cause someone to feel unwell for some time. Symptoms may include a headache, high temperature and feeling tired and weak.

If you are fit and healthy, then your body should recover from flu fairly quickly. Keep warm and drink plenty of fluids, and you should be back to your old self before you know it.

For those who may suffer from health conditions, are older, or if you are pregnant then having flu can be more serious, and you may want to consult your GP.

You can find more information about seasonal vaccinations and winter health here.

Flu vaccine

The flu vaccine helps protect vulnerable people against the dangers of flu. These groups include:

  • People over 65 years of age
  • Pregnant women
  • People with a serious health condition or weak immune system
  • People living with people who have a serious health condition or weak immune system

Supporting Sandwell

Visit our Supporting Sandwell online information hub for advice and information to help cope with the cost of living.

Help for rough sleepers

Find out how to support a rough sleeper and what the council can do to help, especially in severe weather.