Winter Wellbeing

In response to the Cost of Living 'emergency' that was recently declared by Norfolk Community Advice Network (NCAN), we have been working hard to reach out to local communities and raise awareness of the support services that are available to them.

Energy hikes have prompted many people to find cheaper ways to keep warm. Electric blankets can be a great, cost-effective way to keep warm and cosy, however it’s important to use them with care and as with all electrical appliances they should be checked regularly and used as per the manufacturer’s recommendations. There are more than 20,000 electrical fires in UK homes each year, 43 of which are caused by faulty electric blankets in the home, you can find some helpful tips on the Age UK National website to make sure your home is safe.

Our Information and Advice Team have been looking for ways to help keep Norwich residents safe whilst also keeping them warm this winter. We will therefore be holding some Free Electric Blanket Testing Events. Norwich residents over 50 are invited to bring along their existing electric blanket, with all connecting parts, to one of the sessions below where their blanket will be tested by an Electric Blanket Testing Specialist. If the blanket fails then we will replace it for a new one there and then free of charge.

The events are as follows:

Tuesday 6th December 2pm till 5pm at Mile Cross Library on Aylsham Road

Wednesday 7th December 10am till 1pm at Plumstead Road Library

Our own Information & Welfare Advisors will be available at each event to offer information and guidance along with an Energy Champion from Norfolk Citizens Advice who can answer any questions you may have about your energy costs and can also order free Carbon Monoxide alarms for those who need one.

If you don’t have a blanket but would still like to come along for some advice, please do, we will be more than happy to help. We will also have a limited number of our Winter Wellbeing Packs to give away, these will include something to keep you warm, something to help with your mental wellbeing and also a useful Information pack.

If you would like to make an appointment for one of the events please call us on 01603 496333 or alternatively just ‘drop-in’ during the times given.