Stay Warm This Winter: Tips for Cold Weather

As winter approaches and the cost of living crisis continues, staying warm without incurring high energy bills is a concern for most.

We’re here to provide you with practical tips on maintaining an energy-efficient home, from draught-proofing to using heavy curtains and proper insulation.

We’re also here to share information on services to keep you active, details on grant schemes, winter fuel initiatives, and information on local warm spaces with activities and wellness resources.

We hope the following article helps in creating comfort, warmth, wellness, and peace of mind this winter.

Keep Warm!

Turn Down the Heat

Many households are faced with the challenge of keeping warm while managing rising energy costs. One simple yet effective strategy is to lower your thermostat by just 1°C. This small adjustment can lead to significant benefits, not only for your wallet but also for the environment and your overall comfort. By understanding the potential savings and positive impacts of a more moderate indoor temperature, you can take proactive steps toward creating a more energy-efficient and healthier home this winter.

Energy Savings

According to the Energy Saving Trust, lowering your thermostat by just 1°C can reduce your heating bill by around 10%. For an average household, this could mean savings of about £70–£100 a year.

Environmental Impact

The UK government has set ambitious targets for reducing carbon emissions. By using less energy for heating, you can help contribute to these targets and reduce your household’s carbon footprint. The Energy Saving Trust estimates that if every household in the UK lowered their thermostat by just 1°C, it could save around 2 million tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions annually.

Extended Equipment Lifespan

Running your heating system at a lower setting can decrease wear and tear, potentially extending the life of your boiler or heating system. This is especially important in the UK, where many homes rely on older heating systems.

Improved Comfort

A more moderate indoor temperature can lead to greater comfort. The ideal temperature for living areas is often suggested to be around 18-21°C, and sleeping areas can be lower (around 16°C)

Encourages Better Habits

Becoming accustomed to a lower thermostat setting can lead to better energy-saving habits overall. The Energy Saving Trust emphasizes that small changes can lead to significant savings and help foster a culture of energy awareness.

Reduced Risk of Overheating

Maintaining a moderate temperature can prevent the discomfort associated with overheated indoor environments, especially during the winter months when the temperature outside can fluctuate.

Promotes Health

 Cooler indoor temperatures can improve sleep quality. The NHS suggests that a cooler sleeping environment can be beneficial for overall health, potentially helping with conditions like sleep apnea.

Condensing Boiler Guide

The Condensing Boiler Guide by Severn Wye Energy offers a comprehensive look at how condensing boilers work, their benefits, and practical tips for maintaining efficiency. It explains that condensing boilers capture and reuse heat that would otherwise be lost in traditional systems, making them highly energy-efficient and environmentally friendly. The guide provides an overview of common issues like cold spots or noisy radiators and recommends regular servicing to keep the boiler operating safely and effectively. Additionally, it includes maintenance tips, troubleshooting advice, and suggestions for optimizing settings to maximize efficiency.

You can read the full guide here: Condensing Boiler Guide.

Draughtproofing Guide

The Draughtproofing Guide by Severn Wye Energy provides valuable insights into preventing heat loss in your home, focusing on affordable and effective draughtproofing methods. The guide explains how even small gaps and cracks around windows, doors, and floors can lead to significant heat loss, driving up energy bills. It outlines practical solutions, such as using self-adhesive strips, door sweeps, and foam sealants to block these entry points for cold air. By following these tips, you can improve home warmth, reduce energy costs, and make your space more comfortable throughout winter.

You can access the full guide here: Draughtproofing Guide.

Heaters and Fires Guide

The Heaters and Fires Guide by Severn Wye Energy offers essential information on various types of heating systems, including electric and gas heaters, open fires, and stoves. The guide highlights the importance of choosing the right heating solution for your home, considering factors like efficiency, environmental impact, and cost. It provides practical advice on safe installation, usage, and maintenance of different heating appliances to ensure optimal performance and safety. Additionally, the guide discusses the benefits of regular servicing and highlights ways to improve efficiency and reduce energy consumption while keeping your home warm and inviting.

You can view the full guide here: Heaters and Fires Guide.

Insulation Booklet

The Insulation Booklet by Severn Wye Energy provides a comprehensive overview of the importance of insulation in maintaining a warm and energy-efficient home. It explains various types of insulation materials and methods, such as loft insulation, wall insulation, and floor insulation, detailing how each can help reduce heat loss and lower energy bills. The guide emphasizes the long-term benefits of proper insulation, including improved comfort and reduced carbon emissions. Additionally, it offers practical tips for assessing your home’s insulation needs, selecting the right materials, and ensuring effective installation for maximum efficiency.

You can read the full booklet here: Insulation Booklet.

Smart Meters Guide

The Smart Meters Guide by Severn Wye Energy provides an informative overview of smart meters and their benefits for managing energy consumption. It explains how smart meters work, enabling users to monitor their energy use in real time and gain insights into their consumption patterns. The guide discusses the advantages of having a smart meter, such as more accurate billing, the ability to track usage during peak times, and the potential for reducing energy costs. It also addresses common questions and concerns regarding installation, data privacy, and how to interpret the information displayed on the meter, empowering consumers to make informed decisions about their energy use.

You can access the full guide here: Smart Meters Guide.

Top Tips Guide on Saving Energy

The Top Tips Guide by Severn Wye Energy offers practical advice for homeowners looking to improve energy efficiency and reduce heating costs. This concise guide presents a variety of straightforward strategies that can be easily implemented, such as optimizing thermostat settings, utilizing draft excluders, and ensuring proper ventilation. It emphasizes the importance of regular maintenance for heating systems and appliances to enhance their performance and longevity. By following these tips, readers can make their homes more comfortable, lower energy bills, and contribute to a more sustainable environment.

You can view the full guide here: Top Tips Guide.

Wet Heating Guide

The Wet Heating Guide by Severn Wye Energy provides an in-depth look at wet heating systems, which use water to distribute heat throughout a home. The guide covers various types of wet heating systems, including traditional boilers and modern alternatives like heat pumps. It explains how these systems work, the benefits they offer in terms of efficiency and comfort, and the importance of proper installation and maintenance. Additionally, the guide offers practical advice on optimizing system performance, troubleshooting common issues, and ensuring that your wet heating system operates safely and effectively, helping to maintain a warm and welcoming home during the colder months.

You can access the full guide here: Wet Heating Guide.

Energy 101

The Energy 101 Guide by Severn Wye Energy serves as an introduction to energy basics, providing foundational knowledge about energy use, efficiency, and cost-saving practices. The guide explains different energy sources, how energy is measured, and how various household appliances contribute to overall energy consumption. It also includes tips for reducing energy waste, managing heating costs, and making informed choices about energy providers and tariffs. Designed for those looking to better understand their energy usage, the guide equips readers with practical strategies to reduce expenses and make their homes more energy-efficient.

You can read the full guide here: Energy 101 Guide.

 

Maintainance

As winter approaches, maintaining a warm home is crucial for both comfort and health, but it’s equally important to ensure that heating appliances are safe and well-maintained. Neglecting regular checks can lead to inefficiency, higher energy bills, or even dangerous malfunctions. Properly maintained appliances not only help keep your home warm but also ensure that heating systems operate safely and effectively, reducing risks of breakdowns during the coldest months.

Take a look at comprehensive guides from Severn Wye Energy that provide essential tips on both energy-saving practices and maintenance advice to help you keep warm and safe this winter.

Layer Up

Layering is an effective way to stay warm indoors, as it allows you to adjust your clothing and bedding according to your comfort level. Here are some of the best ways to layer and materials to use for optimal warmth

Best Materials for Warmth
  • Wool: Excellent for insulation, wool retains heat well, even when wet. It’s great for both clothing and blankets.
  • Fleece: Soft and lightweight, fleece provides good insulation and is often used for jackets and blankets.
  • Down: Lightweight and highly effective at trapping heat, down insulation is commonly used in jackets and comforters.
  • Synthetic Insulation: Materials like polyester mimic down’s insulating properties but are often more affordable and perform better when wet.
  • Thermal Fabrics: Specialised thermal materials designed to retain heat while allowing moisture to escape, making them suitable for active use.
  • Cotton: While not as insulating as wool or fleece, heavier cotton fabrics can still provide warmth and comfort for blankets and mid layers.
  • Bamboo: Known for its moisture-wicking properties, bamboo can be a comfortable base layer choice, providing warmth without overheating.
Best Ways to Layer
Layer Materials
Base Layer: Start with a moisture-wicking base layer that fits snugly against your skin. This layer helps to keep you dry and trap body heat.  Merino wool, synthetic fabrics (like polyester), or bamboo.

 

Mid Layer: This layer provides insulation and can be thicker than the base layer. Fleece, wool, or insulated fabrics are good options.

Fleece, wool, down, or synthetic insulation.
Outer Layer: The outer layer should protect against drafts and retain heat. It can be a heavier sweater or jacket. Wool, heavy cotton, or insulated jackets.
Accessories: Don’t forget to layer with accessories such as scarves, hats, and gloves, which can help keep warmth from escaping. Knitted wool or fleece.
Blankets and Throws: Use soft blankets or throws on sofas or chairs for additional warmth while lounging. Fleece, wool, or knitted throws.
Warm Footwear: Wear socks and slippers to keep your feet warm Wool or thick cotton socks, and lined slippers.

 

Keep Active!

Staying active this winter isn’t just about fitness—it’s a great way to keep warm, boost energy, and improve mental health. By incorporating regular exercise, even in simple forms, you can enhance circulation and keep your body warmer naturally. Explore easy home workouts, and remember, every bit of movement helps fight the chill and makes a difference for your well-being this season.

 

Home Workout Videos

The NHS “Home Workout Videos” page offers a series of 10-minute exercise videos for cardio, strength, and stretching that can be done at home. These videos are designed to help people stay active and improve both physical and mental well-being. The page also provides links to the Couch to Fitness 9-week plan, Couch to 5K running app, and the Active 10 app, which tracks daily walking activity. The aim is to encourage adults to reach the recommended 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly.

For more details, visit NHS Home Workout Videos.

Nike Training Club

The Nike Training Club (NTC) app is a comprehensive fitness platform designed to enhance your workout experience. It offers a diverse range of over 200 free workouts, catering to various fitness levels and goals, from strength training and cardio to yoga and mobility. Users can customize their fitness routines with workouts lasting from 15 to 60 minutes, allowing for flexibility in training schedules. The app features guidance from expert trainers and athletes, providing tips to help users maximize their performance and achieve their fitness objectives.

Additionally, NTC includes a personal training option where users can receive tailored workouts based on their individual goals, preferences, and fitness levels. The app also offers a social aspect, allowing users to connect and share their progress with friends, which can be a great motivator. Overall, the Nike Training Club app is an excellent resource for anyone looking to stay active and healthy, whether at home or on the go​

 

For more details, you can visit the Nike Training Club website here.

The Nike Run Club

The Nike Run Club (NRC) app is designed to enhance the running experience for athletes of all levels. It offers a comprehensive suite of features, including personalized coaching plans, guided runs, and a tracking system to monitor your running progress. Users can access audio-guided runs led by experienced coaches and athletes, which are tailored to various fitness levels, making it suitable for beginners and seasoned runners alike.

The app also includes community features that allow users to connect with friends, participate in challenges, and share their achievements, fostering motivation and accountability. Additionally, the NRC app seamlessly integrates with Nike’s various running gear and shoes, helping users find the right products for their training needs​.

For more detailed information, you can visit the Nike Run Club app page.

Down Dog

Down Dog app is a popular yoga app that offers personalised yoga sessions for users of all levels. It provides a variety of practices, including Vinyasa, Hatha, and Restorative yoga, and lets users customise their sessions based on pace, duration, and focus. The app offers guided instructions with high-quality video and allows users to create a new sequence each time, making each practice unique.

For more information, visit the Down Dog Website Here.

Daily Workouts

Daily Workouts offers users a selection of workout routines across different categories like abs, arms, legs, and full body. It provides short video-guided workouts of various lengths (from 5 to 30 minutes), making it convenient for people who want to exercise at home without needing equipment. The app is suitable for different fitness levels and has a simple interface for easy navigation.

You can explore ways to download here.

 

JEFIT

JEFIT is a fitness app designed for tracking and optimising workouts. It allows users to create custom workout plans, log progress, and analyze their fitness journey using advanced metrics like muscle recovery and weightlifting charts. JEFIT offers thousands of expert-designed workout plans and fosters a community of over 12 million members. Users can track workouts via their mobile or smartwatch, making it easy to stay consistent and improve performance.

For more details, visit JEFIT’s website.

Just Dance Now

The Just Dance Now app offers a fun way to stay warm this winter through interactive dance routines. Available on both Android and iPhone, it lets you use your smartphone as a controller to follow dance moves on a screen. With a wide selection of songs, you can stay active, energized, and warm indoors while enjoying your favorite tracks.

Download the app here:

 

Freedom Leisure offers various community-focused leisure services that could be ideal for staying active and warm this winter. By engaging in indoor activities such as swimming, fitness classes, and gym workouts, individuals can maintain body heat, improve fitness, and benefit from warmer environments. As a not-for-profit trust, they aim to provide accessible and affordable options, reinvesting funds to enhance services. Their wide range of activities caters to different fitness levels, offering a practical solution for those looking to keep warm while staying healthy during colder months.

Freedom Leisure Centres can be found all over powys

Crickhowell Knighton Llandrindod Wells
Machynlleth (Bro Dyfi) Newtown (Maldwyn) Presteigne (E. Radnor)
Llanfyllin Llanidloes Ystradgynlais
Welshpool (The Flash) Llanfair Caereinion Rhayader

More details: Freedom Leisure

Builth Wells
Brecon

Brecon

Address: Llangorse, Brecon LD3 7TR

Welshpool
Llanfyllin

Llandrindod Wells

Address: Crossgates, Llandrindod Wells LD1 6RE

Y Cwch Gwenyn (The Hive)

  • Address: South Cres, Llandrindod Wells LD1 5DH
Crickhowell and Abergavenny
Knighton

 

 

Ystradgynlais

Ystradgynlais Community Centre
Address: Hendre Ladus, Ystradgynlais, Swansea SA9 1SE

New Radnor

Hereford / Hay-on-Wye

Keep Connected!

As the colder months set in,Local community centers offer welcoming environments where residents can gather, stay warm, and engage in activities. These spaces not only provide shelter from the winter chill but also foster social connections and support networks. Check out the event calendars for various community centers across Powys to find warm spaces and activities available near you!

 

StoriPowys offers several libraries and cultural centers that can serve as warm spaces throughout Powys. These spaces provide a welcoming environment with books, educational resources, and community events. The locations include:

Check each location for opening hours and services. Full details are available on their website.

 

Powys Befriending Service

The Powys Befriending Service is here to offer valuable support for those feeling isolated or in need of companionship, especially during the winter months when challenges with loneliness can intensify. This free service connects individuals with dedicated volunteers, providing not just a friendly voice but also opportunities to engage with the community. Here’s how the service can help:

  • Friendly Companionship: Regular, friendly chats with trained volunteers, either by phone or in person.
  • Reduced Isolation: Support for individuals feeling lonely or isolated, especially during challenging times like winter.
  • Community Activities: Opportunities to join local events and activities, fostering social connections.
  • Emotional Support: Volunteers provide a listening ear and compassionate support.
  • Flexible Service Options: Tailored to meet individual needs, offering support at home or in community settings.
  • Accessible to All: Free for Powys residents, making it accessible for anyone needing a bit of extra support and company.

For more details, visit the Powys Befriending Service.

Ponthafren

Ponthafren is a welcoming charity that’s been supporting communities in North Powys for over 30 years. With two wellness centres and outreach services, Ponthafren offers a range of activities and resources to help people stay connected, warm, and engaged throughout the winter months. Whether you’re interested in creative classes, life skills courses, recovery programs, or volunteering, Ponthafren provides opportunities for everyone to foster well-being and personal growth in a friendly and supportive environment.

Explore Ponthafren’s activities calendar to find out more and get involved this season! Visit Ponthafren.

Mind

Mind offers various services Powys wide that aim at enhancing mental well-being, including counselling, therapeutic services, wellbeing workshops, and support groups such as the Bereaved by Suicide Peer Support Walking Group and Mums Matter. Their initiatives focus on helping individuals build resilience and navigate mental health challenges. For more details, visit their websites to find out more.

 

Mind (Ystradgynlais) 

Mind (Brecon & District) 

Mind (North Powys) 

Keep in the Know!

Grants, Schemes, Support and Advice

Staying warm and managing energy costs can be challenging, especially during the colder months. With the rising cost of living and increased energy bills, finding support is more important than ever. Powys Mental Health has compiled a range of resources and information to help residents navigate utility costs, access financial aid, and manage stress around winter expenses. From practical advice on keeping your home warm to details on available financial support, our goal is to empower you with the tools and information you need to stay warm and well this winter.

Get Help with Your Utilities

The Welsh Government’s page provides guidance on getting financial help with utility bills, including gas, electricity, water, broadband, and mobile phone costs. It outlines various support schemes like the Warm Home Discount, Winter Fuel Payment, Cold Weather Payments, and the Discretionary Assistance Fund. It also advises contacting utility providers for payment plans or other forms of assistance.

For more detailed information, visit the page here.

Boiler Upgrade Scheme

The Boiler Upgrade Scheme offers grants to homeowners in England and Wales to help cover the cost of replacing fossil fuel heating systems with heat pumps or biomass boilers. It aims to encourage more energy-efficient heating solutions. Eligibility depends on factors like the type of existing heating system.

For more details, visit here.

The Great British Insulation Scheme

The Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS) by E.ON helps homeowners and renters improve home insulation, reducing energy costs and improving efficiency. It is part of the government’s effort to assist households with insulation, including cavity wall and loft insulation. Eligibility is based on the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of homes, with those in lower bands being prioritized. The scheme aims to make homes warmer while cutting heating costs.

For more information and to apply, visit E.ON’s GBIS page.

Warm Wales Powys Energy Saving Scheme

The Warm Wales Powys Energy Saving Scheme, funded by the UK government’s Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) and Powys County Council, offers energy efficiency improvements for qualifying households. Eligible properties (typically those with lower EPC ratings) may receive upgrades such as insulation, solar panels, and heat pumps at no cost. The scheme aims to reduce fuel poverty and enhance home energy efficiency. It includes interest-free loans for specific measures, and participants must use approved contractors. Improvements can raise a home’s energy rating and cut energy bills by up to 75%.

For more details, visit the Powys County Council webpage.

The Warm Home Discount Scheme

 £150 discount on electricity bills for eligible households in the UK. To qualify, you either need to receive the Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit or be on a low income with high energy costs. The discount is applied automatically, though those in Scotland must apply through their energy supplier. It is also available to users of pre-pay meters. More information can be found on the GOV.UK website.

Citezans Advice

The Citizens Advice website outlines various financial aids available to help individuals pay their energy bills in the UK. Key supports include the Winter Fuel Payment for those of State Pension age, the Warm Home Discount for qualifying benefit recipients, and fuel vouchers for those with prepayment meters. Additional assistance includes grants for energy debts, energy-saving home improvements, and local council grants. The site also mentions the Priority Services Register for vulnerable customers and resources for those struggling with living costs.

For more details, visit Citizens Advice.

Llandrindod Wells Working Together
Understanding the Winter Fuel Payment

The Winter Fuel Payment offers financial assistance for heating costs to individuals born before September 23, 1958, providing either £200 or £300 for winter 2024-2025. Eligibility is determined by receiving specific benefits, and payments are usually made in November or December. Residents in Scotland have alternative support. For further details, visit the UK Government’s Winter Fuel Payment page.

Green Deal

This government initiative offers homeowners and tenants a chance to improve their energy efficiency with a range of measures, from insulation to heating upgrades. Start by getting a Green Deal assessment, which will help identify the best options for your home and outline potential savings on your energy bills.

Take the first step towards a more sustainable and cost-effective home today!

Get your assessment here: Get an assessment for the Green Deal

Cheap Energy Club

Looking to save on your energy bills? Join the Cheap Energy Club by MoneySavingExpert!

This free service helps you find the best energy deals tailored to your needs. By comparing prices from various suppliers, you can discover potential savings and switch to a more affordable plan effortlessly. Plus, you’ll receive alerts when better deals are available!

Don’t miss out on the chance to lower your energy costs!

Sign up and start saving here: Cheap Energy Club

Energy Efficiency Help

 Nest offers free or low-cost home improvements, including insulation and heating upgrades, specifically for homeowners and private tenants in Wales—especially those on low incomes or receiving benefits.

Ready to make your home more comfortable and energy-efficient? Apply now and see what support you could receive!

 Learn more and apply: Get help with energy efficiency through Nest

Keep Well!

 

 

 As winter approaches, it’s essential to prioritise your health and well-being. The NHS encourages everyone to prepare for the colder months by getting your seasonal vaccinations, particularly the flu vaccine. This year, flu vaccinations for children will be available starting October 1, 2024. Protecting yourself and your loved ones from seasonal illnesses is a vital step in ensuring a healthier winter.

In addition to vaccinations, staying informed about local health services and support options is important, especially for those who may be more vulnerable during the winter season.

 

Taking proactive measures now can help you maintain your health and comfort, allowing you to enjoy the winter months without the added worry of illness. Stay warm, stay healthy, and make sure you’re ready for whatever this winter brings!

Here are some simple ways you can take care of yourself and your family this winter.

  • Stay up to date on your vaccinations
  • Stock up your medicine cabinet
  • Use NHS 111 Wales to check your symptoms
  • Get advice and treatment for minor medical conditions at your local pharmacy
  • Check MIU opening hours and phone first before attending

For more information visit Powys Teaching Health Board’s website: https://pthb.nhs.wales/help-us-help-you/

Powys Training Health Board News

The Powys Teaching Health Board’s news page offers updates and information on various healthcare initiatives and services in Powys. Recent highlights include updates on winter preparations, such as vaccination reminders to protect against seasonal illnesses. The Health Board also emphasizes efforts to improve services, from new medical equipment to mental health advice, while actively promoting energy-saving measures and community health projects. For further details, visit their news page.

Immunisation and Vaccines

The Powys Teaching Health Board’s immunisation and vaccines page emphasizes the life-saving benefits of vaccines. It highlights the importance of ensuring children receive their full immunisation schedule, which helps protect against diseases like polio, diphtheria, and tetanus. The page also stresses that adults, particularly those at increased risk, should stay up to date with flu and pneumococcal vaccinations. Resources and information are provided to help individuals make informed decisions about immunisations for themselves and their children.

For more information, visit the full page here.

Mental Health Services

The Powys Teaching Health Board’s mental health services page provides helpful information on how residents can access support for mental health and wellbeing. From community mental health teams to crisis resolution, dementia care, and bereavement services, the Health Board offers a range of services to support adults and older people. There’s also online support like SilverCloud for those needing mental health guidance. The page encourages individuals to reach out for help, whether it’s for managing everyday stress or dealing with more complex conditions.

For more details, visit the full page here.

NHS 111 Service

NHS 111 is a free service that provides urgent medical advice and treatment for non-life-threatening issues. 

Call
Medical help for urgent but non-life-threatening issues
Online

The NHS 111 Wales page is a comprehensive health resource for residents of Wales. It offers quick access to essential services, including a symptom checker, health information from A-Z, guidance on finding services nearby, and resources for managing specific health needs like accessing medicines or booking GP appointments. The platform also provides practical tools such as the skin rashes guide and assistance for long-term health conditions. It’s designed to make finding reliable, local health support straightforward.

Explore more at NHS 111 Wales.

Services
Booking GP appointments, managing hospital referrals, COVID-19 vaccinations