Skip to main content

Health Board Urges Residents to Check on Vulnerable Neighbours as Cold Snap Hits Gwent

With temperatures set to plunge across South Wales this week, Aneurin Bevan University Health Board is urging residents to check in on vulnerable members of their community – warning that these simple acts of kindness could save lives.

The Met Office has forecast a marked drop in temperatures, with widespread frosts and daytime highs struggling to reach single figures. Some areas could even see temperatures fall below freezing overnight, with a risk of ice and wintry showers.

Cold weather poses serious risks for older or frail people, especially those living alone. Lower temperatures increase the likelihood of slips and falls on icy surfaces, exacerbate respiratory conditions, and heighten vulnerability to winter viruses such as flu, Covid-19, and RSV. Hypothermia remains a real danger for those without adequate heating.

The Health Board is asking families, friends, and neighbours to play their part by:

  • Checking that vulnerable people are warm and comfortable, with access to heating, blankets, and hot food and drinks.
  • Ensuring they have enough nutritious food and essential supplies to avoid unnecessary trips outdoors.
  • Confirming their medication is well-stocked and that they have sturdy slippers to reduce the risk of falls at home.
  • Offering to pick up shopping or prescriptions to help them stay safe indoors.

Dr Seema Srivastava MBE, Medical Director for Aneurin Bevan University Health Board, said: "Local residents can really help us by looking after themselves and their loved ones this winter. Vulnerable members of our communities are more susceptible to falls and the effects of cold weather, so checking in on older family members and neighbours could prevent harm and ease pressure on our valuable NHS services."

Residents are also advised to treat minor illnesses early by visiting a local pharmacist or GP, and to use the Gwent Health Guide on the Health Board’s website or to call 111 for clear advice on where to go for medical help.

The Health Board is also urging eligible residents to get their flu and Covid-19 booster vaccinations to avoid becoming seriously ill and to reduce the spread of infections.

For further information on staying safe in colder weather, visit the Public Health Wales website.