Winter and the festive season can bring joy, but they can also present challenges for many. At MSV, we’re here to help you stay warm, safe, and supported during this time. Whether you’re concerned about energy costs, managing the colder weather, or your mental well-being, we’ve got resources and advice to make things easier.
How we can support you:
- Energy-Saving Advice: Discover simple changes to keep your home warm without raising your bills.
- Warm Home Grants: Advice on grants and support for those most affected by rising energy costs.
- Home Efficiency Guidance: Get advice on how to insulate, heat, and manage energy efficiently.
Visit our Winter Warmth page to learn more about the support available to you.
Top Tips to Stay Warm and Well This Winter:
- Layer Up Indoors: Wear several thin layers rather than one thick one, and use blankets or throws while relaxing at home.
- Make the Most of Your Heating: Set your thermostat to a comfortable temperature (18–21°C), heat the rooms you use most, and close doors to retain warmth.
- Stop Draughts: Use draught excluders on doors and windows, and close curtains at dusk to keep out the cold.
- Manage Energy Costs: Boil only the water you need for drinks, use energy-efficient bulbs, and switch off appliances when not in use.
- Keep Your Home Ventilated: Open windows slightly to prevent dampness and improve air circulation, or dry clothes in a well-ventilated space.
- Look After Yourself: Eat hot meals, drink warm beverages regularly, and stay active to boost circulation and keep warm.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or worried, these organisations are here to help:
- No Panic: Call 0844 967 4848 or visit nopanic.org.uk
- Samaritans: Call 116 123 or visit samaritans.org
- Mind: Call 0300 123 3393 or visit mind.org.uk
- SHOUT: Text “SHOUT” to 85258 or visit giveusashout.org
- CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably): Call 0800 58 58 58 or visit thecalmzone.net
- Papyrus: Call 0800 068 4141 or visit papyrus-uk.org
- Cruse Bereavement Support: Call 0808 808 1677 or visit cruse.org.uk
- Hope (Hub of Hope App): Download via Google Play or the Apple App Store
- Stay Alive App: Download via Google Play or the Apple App Store
- Refuge: Call 020 7395 7700 or visit refuge.org.uk
- National Domestic Abuse Helpline: Call 0808 2000 247 or visit nationaldahelpline.org.uk
