Hackney Homes festive winter warmer success
Snow and sleet did not deter over 100 Hackney residents aged over 55 from coming to Hackney Homes’ second winter warmer event which took place on Wednesday, 16th December 2009.
On arrival residents were warmed up with hot soups, a choice of free fleecy scarves and gloves plus other freebies to take home. Mince pies and festive songs were enjoyed in a cozy friendly atmosphere.
East London Food Access provided fruits plus advice on healthy eating to seniors attending. Age Concern Hackney, the 2012 Olympics Team, The Learning Trust, The Sharp End, London Energy Efficiency ltd and Hackney Homes Resident Participation team all provided useful advice on energy saving, staying active and getting involved.
Bridget Fallon from Heatherley Court, said: “I enjoyed this event very much, the friendly atmosphere, information and meeting new people.”
Chair of Hackney Homes Board, Rupert Tyson, said: “Hackney Homes is committed to supporting our older residents who make up a large proportion of our community. We look forward to hosting more winter warmer session’s next year borough wide.”
1. Look after yourself
- Eat for warmth -regular hot meals and hot drinks provide warmth and energy.
- Keep moving, don't sit still -any activity gets circulation going and makes you feel warmer.
- Wrap up warmly indoors and out ideally with several layers of thin clothing.
- Keep your home at the right temperature -it should be around 21 Celsius (70 Fahrenheit).
- Keep warm at night-wearing the right clothing to bed is as important as wrapping up outdoors.
- Get a flu jab -every year the flu virus changes, so reduce the risk and get your jab.
2. Keep your home warm
- Central heating - turn it on, checkthat it works properly, no leaks or blockages, or get it serviced. If it's a gas appliance, make sure you contact a CORGI registered installer.
- Electric blankets -anything10 years old or more should be replaced if possible and certainly serviced in line with manufacturers' guidelines.
- Sticking aluminium foil down the back of a radiatorclose to the wall increase the radiator's efficiency, reflecting the heat back into the room.
- Insulation: pipes might need lagging, and heat is lost through draughty doors and windows.Cheap and easy-to-use draft excluders are available in DIY stores.
- The letterbox can let in lots of cold air, especially when newspapers are left in them. Banish the breeze with a brush-type cover for the letterbox.
- Open keyholes also let in cold air. Room temperature can drop ten degrees in one hour. Buy a little round metal flap to cover the hole.
For more advice call The National Home Heat Help line on 0800 33 66 99 (Mon - Fri - 9am to 8pm,Sat - 10am to 3pm).