UPDATE 6 January: this amber cold weather alert has been extended to 12pm on Sunday 11 January.
UKHSA and the Met Office have issued an amber cold weather alert for the West Midlands in effect until Friday 9 January.
This weather could increase the health risks to vulnerable patients and disrupt the delivery of services.
The Met Office has issued the following severe cold weather advice:
• Look out for friends and family who may be vulnerable to the cold, and ensure they
have access to warm food and drinks and are managing to heat their homes
adequately
• Try to maintain indoor temperatures to at least 18°C, particularly if you are not mobile,
have a long-term illness or are 65 or over
• Avoid exposing yourself to cold or icy outdoor conditions if you are at a higher risk of
cold-related illness or falls and stay up to date with the latest weather forecasts on
the Met Office website
• If you want more information about how cold weather can affect your health, please
visit www.nhs.uk. If you are concerned about your health or somebody you care for,
advice can be obtained from www.nhs.uk/winterhealth, NHS 111, or your local pharmacist.
The Winter Warmth Helpline and emergency help – supported by Solihull Council and provided by Age UK Solihull – provides support and advice to help people stay warm and well. Older people, those living with disabilities or long-term health conditions, carers and families with young children can call 0121 704 8080, 9am - 5pm, Monday to Friday.
There is also useful information in the Council's ‘Here2Help booklet' on the Council website.