Yellow Cold Alert - Dec 23

A yellow cold health alert has been triggered for London from Thursday 30th November until 12pm Tuesday 5th December.

Please see information from Islington Council below:

This means there is an increased risk of harm from cold weather amongst those in vulnerable groups – including: those aged over 65 years, those with cardiovascular and respiratory disease, those pregnant, and those who may be less able to respond to cold weather (including those with learning disability, mental health conditions or on low income).  

Impacts of cold weather on health can include increased risk of heart attack, stroke and respiratory infection amongst those vulnerable who are exposed to cold. Exposure to cold weather can also have a negative impact on mental health. 

The guidance for those working in adult social care is accessible here: Supporting vulnerable people before and during cold weather: for adult social care managers - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk).

Key actions                                                                                 

• In addition to general measures around promoting COVID-19 and flu vaccines to those eligible, it is important to check-in on those at highest risk and to consider vulnerability to cold-related harm when engaging with clients. 

Key advice

• Get vaccinated against flu and COVID-19 if you are eligible to reduce risk of infection

• Keep regularly used rooms at 18 degrees of above if possible

• Wear multiple layers

• Stay active throughout the day

• Seek medical advice if unwell, calling 999 in an emergency

As discussed at the GP forum session, patients can be supported by signposting to cost-of-living support services provided by the council to help with heating costs and can be made aware of local warm spaces (Warm Welcome Campaign). Food support and local warm spaces information here.