Ways to look after your body and mind
Post-Christmas can be a challenging time for a lot of people. With the festivities over, the cold dark winter days, sometimes even getting out of bed can feel like a struggle.
You are not alone. A lot of people can feel this way and there's plenty of support out there.
Warm Welcomes – come on in
As the weather gets colder over 80 Warm Welcomes across ßÙßÇÂþ» open their doors to provide a free, safe, welcoming, and warm space for all. They will be open for everyone to enjoy a free hot drink, get warm and enjoy the company of others. Some venues also run activities and provide access to other local support services if needed.
Keeping safe and well
Getting your free flu and COVID-19 vaccines if you are eligible for them are the most important things you can do to keep yourself and others around you safe this winter. See the webpage for eligibility.
If you are unwell, see the to find the best health service for your needs. If you need help and you’re not sure, visit or call 111.
For more visit Healthy ßÙßÇÂþ».
Quit smoking
Free support is available in ßÙßÇÂþ» to help you quit smoking and feel healthier and happier. offers personalised one-to-one advice and quit aids at no cost, giving you the tools and guidance you need to start your smoke-free journey today.
Taking notice of the world around us
Paying attention to what’s around us can help us appreciate the present moment - boosting our mood and improving wellbeing. Even in the cold days of winter, there are still things we can do to
Scenery and nature can be enjoyed in the countryside, as well as in urban areas – take a moment to look at the sky, birds, trees and changing seasons when heading outside. Plus, there are plenty of volunteering opportunities to enjoy the outdoors all year round.
Support for cutting down on alcohol
January is a time many people reflect on the changes they can make. If you’re thinking about drinking less, you’re not alone, and there’s free, confidential support available. is a local service for adults in ßÙßÇÂþ» who want to cut down or stop drinking.
You can have up to six telephone sessions to help you feel more energised, sleep better and build healthier habits that last. Start by taking the 2-minute test to understand your drinking and see the support available.
Healthy habits can reduce your dementia risk
We often hear about the importance of looking after our hearts, but did you know that heart health is also closely linked to brain health?
Dementia is a condition that affects memory and thinking skills. There’s growing evidence that keeping your heart healthy can reduce your risk of developing dementia.
Many dementia cases are linked to things we can't change, such as our age and genes. However, new research is showing that dementia isn't always inevitable. And that there are steps we can take to lessen our chances of developing the condition in later life. Ways you can are by:
- staying active
- eating a balanced diet
- stopping smoking and
- keeping an eye on your health numbers such as blood pressure and cholesterol
Visit the for tips and information about local services which can help you make positive changes in 2026 and beyond, including how to get free health and blood pressure checks.
Planning for every life stage
It’s important to look after yourself as you get older. Planning for the year - or further - ahead is just as important when you’re 70 as it is when you’re 17. That’s why we run in-person and online events which help you learn more about staying independent, finding community support and getting extra help to maintain your wellbeing.
Check out , run in conjunction with Age UK ßÙßÇÂþ».