Help is available in Preston this Winter

As winter sets in, many are due to face the seasonal challenges, from rising living costs to social isolation. In collaboration with community organisations, Preston City Council is highlighting a range of services across the city designed to keep people safe, warm, and healthy during the colder months.

Visit the Help in Preston website

Councillor Zafar Coupland, Cabinet Member for Health and Wellbeing at Preston City Council, said:

"The residents of Preston need to know that support is available if they need it. We're here to help our people stay safe, warm, and healthy throughout the winter.

 

Please help us reach all pockets of the community by spreading the word and let friends and family know that help is available."

Councillor Nweeda Khan, Cabinet Member for Communities and Social Justice at Preston City Council, said:

"Winter can be particularly tough and so we're proud to partner with many community and charitable organisations across Preston that can support people through challenging times.
Together, we can ensure our community remains resilient, connected, and cared for this winter."

Preston City Council and its community partners provide a wide range of support to meet the diverse needs of residents, including warm spaces, food access, financial assistance, and much more.

Household Support Fund

The council has announced the next round of the Household Support Fund, designed to assist Preston residents with rising energy costs and other essential expenses.

Cost of Living Support

For residents struggling with the rising cost of living, financial assistance is available through useful links, tips, and pointers on where and how to find support across the city. Direct support is also available through initiatives such as the Household Support Fund, pension credit, and the benefits calculator.

Financial assistance for Pensioners

The council encourages pensioners to check their eligibility for pension credit and, if eligible, provides support on how to claim them.

Warm Spaces

In collaboration with Lancashire County Council, a network of warm, safe, and welcoming spaces has been set up across Preston, including the Olive Grove Community Café on Lune Street. These spaces provide warmth, advice, and opportunities to connect with others.

Wellbeing During Winter

The council is reminding residents that health and wellbeing include physical, mental, and social aspects. Winter can increase feelings of isolation and loneliness, so residents are encouraged to check in on friends and loved ones, as even a single conversation can make a difference.

One way to look after your health and wellbeing this winter is by defending yourself against viruses through vaccination.

Following the guidance from the UK Health Security Agency, residents eligible for flu and COVID-19 vaccinations are urged to get vaccinated as part of the "Get Winter Strong" campaign. This is especially important as these viruses are expected to peak during the festive and New Year period.

Food Support

For those struggling to put food on the table there are numerous organisations across Preston providing food support. 

Help is available in Preston this winter - you just need to ask.

For more details about services available in winter and how to access them visit the Help in Preston website.