PEOPLE are being urged to take care of themselves over the winter period.

As part of the NHS 'Help Us Help You' campaign, the Bradford District NHS Foundation Trust is providing a range of self-care information.

Winter weather can cause problems for people with long-term conditions such as diabetes, heart or respiratory conditions like asthma, and people aged 65 and over, so it's important that people who fall into these groups have all the information they need to ensure that they can spot the first signs of illness and treat it early.

Important numbers and diary dates

  • People are advised to see a pharmacist or call NHS 111 for immediate medical advice, or call 999 in life-threatening emergencies. People who are experiencing a mental health crisis, and are living in Bradford, Airedale, Wharfedale or Craven, can call the First Response service on 01274 221181, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. The Trust is holding free 'stay well' events: Tuesday, November 13, 11am-2pm at the Kirkgate Shopping Centre, Bradford; Wednesday, November 14, 11am-2pm at the Oastler Shopping Centre, Bradford; Thursday, November 15, 10am-2pm at the Airedale Shopping Centre, Keighley.

The colder months can also affect elderly friends, relatives and neighbours who might not be able to get out and about easily in the wind, ice or snow, so part of the campaign focuses on looking out for vulnerable people who may need extra help.

Sarah Horsfall, District Nurse at Bradford District Care NHS Foundation Trust, said: “The cold winter months can affect our health but there are lots of things we can all do to keep ourselves and our families well throughout winter.

"See your pharmacist at the first sign of illness, as they can help treat it before it gets worse. You should also check that you’ve got all the essentials in your medicine cabinet at home to treat common winter illnesses like colds.

“It’s a good idea to wrap up when you go out and keep your house warm when you’re at home. Check with your pharmacist or GP whether you are eligible for a free flu jab; young children, the elderly, people with long-term conditions and people who care for vulnerable loved ones at home, are all eligible for a flu vaccination.”

Visit the Trust’s ‘staywell’ web pages at www.bdct.nhs.uk/stay-well for more information.