Think Self-Care

Taking small steps can help keep you and your loved ones well.

Think winter vaccinations

If you’re eligible, make sure you’re up to date with your COVID-19, flu and RSV vaccinations.

Find out about seasonal vaccinations in Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent.

Think healthy living

• Eat a healthy, balanced diet and keep hydrated to help you feel your best and keep your energy levels up.
• Try to reduce the amount of time you spend sitting down during the day and be active. Enjoy the outdoors if you can. It doesn’t matter what you do, as long as it’s something you enjoy and keeps you moving.
• Build your strength, balance and coordination, and wear shoes or slippers with a good grip to help prevent falls.

Your local council offers a range of support and services to keep you healthy and well: Staying well this winter | Staffordshire County Council and Health and Wellbeing | Health and Wellbeing | Stoke-on-Trent

Think warmth

• Keep your home at a comfortable temperature. Ideally, heat the rooms you use the most to at least 18?C.
• Wearing several layers of clothing will keep you warmer than one thick layer. For extra warmth, use a blanket or hot water bottle if needed.
• If you are struggling to heat your home, warm and welcoming spaces may be available locally.

Think financial support

If you’re worried about money or struggling with bills, support may be available through your local council:

• Staffordshire County Council – Cost of living support
• City of Stoke-on-Trent – Cost of living support

Think connection

Stay in touch with family, friends and neighbours. A quick phone call or visit can make a big difference, especially for someone who may be feeling lonely or unwell.

Think preparedness

Keep your medicine cabinet stocked with painkillers, rehydration and indigestion treatments, anti-diarrhoea medicine, antiseptic cream and antihistamines, and a First Aid Kit: Visit the NHS website for a full medicine cabinet list.

Always check that your medicines are in date. If they are out of date, take them to a pharmacy where they can be disposed of safely.

Think NHS 111

If you’re worried about symptoms and aren’t sure what to do, visit NHS 111 online or call 111 for advice.

Think NHS app

Consider using the NHS App to order repeat prescriptions, view your health record and access NHS services online.

If someone’s life is at risk, call 999 or go to A&E (Emergency Department).