Royal Voluntary Service releases free* Stay Safe, Warm and Well guide
As winter approaches and people get out less, feelings of isolation and loneliness can soar particularly for those over 75, Royal Voluntary Service research1 finds. Left unchecked, these emotions can contribute to further mental and physical health problems.
The Royal Voluntary Service’s Stay Safe, Warm and Well campaign offers wellbeing advice and support throughout the winter, and urges people to prepare for the season not only practically, but emotionally.
Sam Ward OBE, deputy chief executive of Royal Voluntary Service, said: “We’ve found through research that at this time of year, unfortunately, feelings of isolation and loneliness can increase, which can impact our health and wellbeing. We want to be there for as many people as possible this winter, and so together with our friends at Yakult, we have created the Stay Safe, Warm and Well guide.”
The Stay Safe, Warm and Well guide is filled with essential information, practical tips, and advice to help people navigate the challenges of winter. It encourages sign ups to telephone support services and information on accessing the Virtual Village Hall online community of events and activities, as well as providing vital practical guidance on topics such as money-saving advice and energy-saving tips.
According to recent Royal Voluntary Service research, almost half (47%) of over 75s surveyed say feelings of loneliness and/or isolation heighten in winter. Of those who live alone, one in six say they feel forgotten during winter, and 20% have no one to turn to for emotional support during the season.
Among the host of challenges older generations worry about in the colder months, 29% of respondents identify not being able to get out as much as something they dread, up there with higher heating bills (55%).
The guide also encourages us all to make sure we are socially connected and have support in place as we face the difficulties the season can bring.
The guide includes details on how readers can sign up for Royal Voluntary Service’s telephone support services, which match volunteers who are available for a friendly chat, with people across the country who are looking to make new connections, share a story or a joke, and ease feelings of loneliness and isolation. It also shares information on accessing the charity’s Virtual Village Hall online community of events and activities.
The impact of social connection and having someone to turn to for support and conversation cannot be overstated, said the RVS, who has found that 42% of those who receive telephone support from its volunteers say they visit their GP less.
Find out more about the Stay Safe, Warm and Well guide at www.royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk/safe-warm-well.
To download a free copy, go to https://www.royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk/our-services/advice-support/stay-safe-warm-and-well/
To order a physical copy of the guide, please call 0800 731 9197.
* Please note, there is fee of £2.99 P&P for a postal copy.